According to the American Animal Hospital

Animal Hospital Association's 2003 Pet Owner Survey, roughly 30 percent of pet owners have lost a pet at one time. With that in mind, we offer these tips for finding your pet.

30% of pet owners have lost a pet at one time.

The Importance of Pet Identification

One of the most important, yet most frequently over-looked, aspects of protecting your pet is identification. A frightening number of dogs and cats enter the animal shelter system each year. In fact, the sheer volume alone has forced legislation to shorten the required shelter holding time to as few as 36 hours before euthanasia. With this in mind, you can see how easily your beloved pet could be destroyed if you don't take the appropriate measures to clearly identify him so that he can be returned quickly should he become lost

Pet Identification Tips:

In addition to a current rabies tag, all pets should wear a tag with the owner's name, address, and phone number. Be sure to check with your local animal control agency for community-specific rules on licensing as well.

If you travel with your pet, be sure to put a temporary tag with the local address on it in case you and your pet are separated away from home.

If you've moved recently, take the time to purchase new ID tags for your pet and call your veterinarian to update your address for their files as well.

Use "O" rings rather than "S" clasps to attach tags to your pet's collar. They are less likely to come off.

Pet ID tags are the most reliable way to ensure your dog or cat makes it home safe and sound. Each tag displays your animal's name, license number and your phone number. Working on the honor system, if your animal does become lost, the idea is that the person who finds him or her will call to tell you their location and arrange a reunion.

Five Things To Do
If you lose your pet, here are the first five things you should do:

1. Rally your family and friends and go looking. This is especially important if you realize soon that the pet is missing.

2. Call your veterinarian. If your pet is wearing a rabies tag on its collar, the tag number often can be traced to your veterinarian who can then help reunite you with your lost pet.

3. Call every animal shelter or humane organization in your area. Visit the most likely shelters in person because you know your pet better than anyone else. Keep checking daily!

4. Check with neighbors and put up signs around your neighborhood (or area the pet was last seen) that include a photo or description of your pet, your phone number, and how long your pet has been missing.

5. Call your local newspaper and place a "lost pet" ad. Also check the newspaper daily for "found pets" ads. Often they will print found ads for free.

1. Remember to update your pet’s id tag when you move house or change your phone number.
2. Check the tag regularly to make sure it is easily read and is still there!
3. Don’t let complacency mean the loss of a life; tag your pet to avoid trauma.