We frequently receive calls or e-mails from distraught pet parents whose pet is missing. These calls are heart wrenching for our staff, not only because we imagine our own distress if it were one of our own, but because they often experience added anguish, preventable if only fluffy or fido had been wearing ID tags.

It can happen to even the most responsible pet owners, whose pets stay indoors or out only when attended. A single visitor unaware of the importance of quickly closing the door or latching the gate can undo all your care and responsibility. Even if you think it couldn’t happen to you, a tag with your current contact information is an inexpensive way to achieve peace of mind. In a pinch, fold a sticky address label around his collar until you can get new tags made.

Just this weekend, we received a message about “Buzz,” a big, gentle guy last seen in his own backyard of his home in the city. Fortunately, he was found only a few blocks from home. As Buzz’s family was searching for him, some kind neighbors had found him and were going door to door trying to discover where he belonged. Buzz’s mom was relieved to have him safely home and reported that he has new identification tags. Had he had them a day sooner, think how much simpler the process could’ve been. The good Samaritans on the next block could have simply called the number on his tag or identified the home to which he belonged.

Also be sure to inspect your pet’s tags on a regular basis to be sure the contact information is still legible. The Lora Robins Gift Shop at the Richmond SPCA will engrave your information on a variety of tag styles. This is also a great time to pick up a new spring collar design to go with those new tags.

Some years ago, there were several featured articles in the Richmond Times Dispatch about an elusive shaggy Black Dog in the Richmond Fan who was cared for by citizens in the community and despite all attempts to catch him, he continued to get away…have often wondered the outcome?

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