Did you know that one in three pets will be lost in their lifetime? BRVC’s doctors and veterinary care team members want to make sure lost pets are reunited with their families and offer the following suggestions to ensure a happy ending.

  • Microchipping is one of the easiest ways to make sure Fido or Fluffy remain a lifelong member of your family. Microchips, which are the size of a grain of rice, are typically inserted while your pet is under general anesthesia during spay or neuter surgery, but can be placed without anesthesia at any time. Our veterinary care team members complete all of the registration paperwork for you and you receive a customized tag displaying the microchip number. Stray animals presented to a veterinarian or shelter or picked up by the police are routinely scanned for microchips. When a microchip is found, the chip company is contacted and owner information is shared to make sure your pet is returned to you as quickly as possible. It’s especially important to notify the microchip company when your street address, e-mail address, or phone number(s) change so they have the most current information to contact you.
  • GPS tracking for companion animals is a relatively new technology that allows you to monitor your four-legged family member’s location with an app on your cell phone. Lightweight trackers attach to your pet’s collar and collars with an embedded tracker are also available. Some of these wearables can also track your pet’s heart rate, activity level, calories burned, and distance traveled! When comparing GPS tracking options, keep in mind that cellular service is required, most trackers require a monthly subscription fee, some trackers are waterproof, batteries must be regularly recharged, and some apps will provide directions to your pet’s current location.
  • A collar with an up-to-date ID tag may be the quickest way for anyone who finds your pet to contact you. ID tags should include your pet’s name and one or more phone numbers where you can be reached. You should also check older ID tags to make sure your contact information is still legible.

If your pet does become lost, be sure to contact local police departments, animal shelters and veterinary clinics to see if anyone has reported finding your pet. In addition, you can submit a lost dog form at https://lostdogsillinois.org/report-a-lost-dog-2/ and your pet’s photo and related information will be posted on Lost Dogs Illinois’ Facebook page. To learn more about how microchips increase the chance that your pet will be returned if they become lost, give us a call at 630-598-0600.