The Importance of Microchips and Collars with Tags

I see it far too often - someone's dog gets out, a post goes up on FB in a group or page, or a post goes up on Nextdoor app, with a description of the dog, what happened and then the dreaded words: "No microchip," and/or, "no collar/tags."

Or, the opposite, where someone finds a dog and there is no microchip or collar/tags, and they have to ask for proof of ownership of someone wants to claim their dog back - or worse, they just rehome the dog to someone who simply wants them.

Microchipping your dog is one of the most important things you can do to keep them safe. A microchip is a small, electronic device that is implanted under your dog's skin - they used to implant it in the ear, but more recently between the shoulder blades. It contains a unique identification number that can be read by a scanner. If your dog ever gets lost or stolen, the microchip can help them be reunited with you quickly and easily. I've had mine registered with Home Again (it was a $19.99/mo subscription when I had it), previously, and I would receive an email as soon as the chip was scanned.

Here are some of the benefits of microchipping your dog:

• It is a permanent form of identification. Unlike a collar and ID tag, a microchip cannot be lost or removed.
• It is easy to do. The microchipping procedure is quick and painless.
• It is affordable. The cost of microchipping your dog is relatively low.
• It is effective. Studies have shown that microchipped dogs are more likely to be reunited with their owners than dogs who are not microchipped.

If you are a dog owner, I encourage you to microchip your dog. It is a simple, affordable, and effective way to keep them safe.

(If my late boy Walther didn't have a microchip, I wouldn't have been able to get him back after 5 years from being stolen from me. He was scanned by Animal Control and I received an email that he was all the way in IL)

Secondly, collars and tags are important for your dog for a number of reasons. They can help to identify your dog, keep them safe, and make them more comfortable. I like to consider this a secondary to the microchip because there are also cons to having a collar, like how it can easily be removed if someone really wanted to keep your dog. Important notes on collars and tags are:

• Identification: A collar with an ID tag is the best way to ensure that your dog can be identified if they ever get lost. The tag should include your name, address, and phone number. You can also add your dog's name and breed to the tag.
• Safety: A collar and leash can help to keep your dog safe when you are walking them. The leash can prevent your dog from running away or getting into danger. Proper holding of the leash is also important. 
• Comfort: A well-fitting collar can help to keep your dog comfortable. It should be made of a soft material and not be too tight or too loose. 

When choosing a collar for your dog, it is important to consider their size, breed, and activity level. You should also choose a collar that is made of a durable material that will not break easily. I also have personally opted to not have tags, but I have either Velcro or printed/stitched information on the collars because I find that tags are a major cause for pets being caught up on objects and becoming stuck. I do, however, have tags on their vests with a QR code that can be scanned, where I would get an email notification with their location upon being scanned, much like the microchip (For Freyja I have this tag on her vest: My Lucky Tag, from Amazon).

It is also important to make sure that the collar fits your dog properly. The collar should be snug enough so that it does not slip off, but not so tight that it restricts your dog's breathing. You should be able to fit two fingers between the collar and your dog's neck.

You should check your dog's collar regularly to make sure that it is still in good condition and that it fits properly. If the collar is damaged or does not fit properly, you should replace it immediately.

Here are some additional tips for choosing and using a collar for your dog:

• Choose a collar that is the right size for your dog. The collar should be snug enough so that it does not slip off, but not so tight that it restricts your dog's breathing. I reiterate, you should be able to fit two fingers between the collar and your dog's neck.
• Choose a collar that is made of a durable material. The collar should be able to withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. For example, I have mostly working dogs, so my Service Animal (Freyja) and my protection dog (Loki) both have collars that also have handles on them for extra control - see picture at the end.
• Choose a collar that is comfortable for your dog. The collar should be made of a soft material that will not irritate your dog's skin.
• Check your dog's collar regularly to make sure that it is still in good condition and that it fits properly. If the collar is damaged or does not fit properly, you should replace it immediately. It is also important to keep it clean, so the risk of rash and infection are minimalized.
• Never leave a collar on your dog when they are not supervised. This could lead to them getting caught on something and choking.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your dog safe and comfortable with a collar.

-The Shark Amongst the Paws