No one wants to imagine their dog or cat running away and getting lost. Unfortunately, it happens on a daily basis. Approximately 10 million pets go missing annually in the United States, and those who aren’t microchipped or wearing ID tags are unlikely to be reunited with their owners. 

As your trusted vet near McKinney, we don’t want you to suffer the stress and sadness of losing a beloved pet. That’s why we’re sharing some tips to help you celebrate National Lost Pet Prevention Month and keep your furry friend safe. Keep reading to discover a few suggestions from PetNest Animal Hospital. 

1. Have them Microchipped

A microchip provides lifetime protection for your pet and peace of mind for you. The process takes only a few seconds and causes little to no discomfort. Many patients aren’t even aware anything happened! If your dog or cat ever wanders off and ends up in a shelter or a veterinary clinic, they’ll be scanned for a microchip. If your pet has a chip with your current contact information, someone will reach out to you to reunite you with your beloved companion. 

2. Make Sure They’re Wearing a Correct ID Tag, Too

Your pet needs to wear a collar and identification even after they’ve been microchipped — especially when they’re outside of your home. Check the tag frequently to make sure it’s still easy to read and contains your current contact information. 

3. Spay/Neuter Your Pet

Having your pet spayed or neutered is a responsible decision that prevents them from contributing to the unwanted pet population. It does more than that, though. Because these procedures eliminate the urge to reproduce, neutered/spayed pets are less likely to roam and get lost while seeking a mate. 

Celebrate National Lost Pet Awareness Month with Your Vet near McKinney

When you’re ready to have your pet microchipped and spayed/neutered, we’re here for you. As your pet’s vet near McKinney, we’re also here to address any questions or concerns you may have about protecting your pet. Contact us today to find out more.