Ensure your pet is properly identifiable

Members logged onto community groups, on various social media platforms, regularly post appeals for assistance in finding lost pets.

As a result, local animal clinics as well as the SPCA and other animal shelters are inundated with animals that have lost their way home, as do-gooders surrender these animals to these facilities in the hope that they will be reunited with their owners.

The NSPCA advises pet owners to have their pets microchipped.

This micro device, which is implanted just under the animal’s skin, assists in fur-babies being reunited with their families as soon as the device is scanned and contact information for the owners are available.

The animal welfare society further recommends that pets wear sturdy collars fitted with engraved tags, displaying the relevant contact information thus making it easy for someone to make contact, should your pet get lost.

Opting for a traditional collar it is important to make sure of the following:
• Ensure that the collar is not too tight, loosen it as your pet grows.

• It is advisable that the collar should be loose enough ensuring that it comfortable around the neck but not too loose that it can be easily removed by the pet or snag on protruding objects, which may lead to injury.

• Replace the collar should it become worn

• Regularly inspect the ring and disc attached to the collar. Ensure that the attachment rings are not worn, bent or gaping which may lead to the disc slipping off.

• Check that the information engraved on the disc is legible

Information which should be displayed on the identification tag:
• Pet’s name

• Contact details for the owner plus an alternative number

• Medical conditions if necessary

ALSO READ: Keep your pets safe and cool

ALSO READ: Plants to avoid if you have pets or small children