[dezertblu]

This is a clip of an article I found concerning tags and identity maybe it will answer the question, this is from an animal services dept.I personally have chipped my dogs, the only thing I have to do is make sure my address is up to date on the database.It is not an expensive method if you find the right organization to do it, RSPCA here in the UK has a program for it..this is who I went through.


How not to lose your pet.

Even the most responsible pet owners can lose a pet due to unforeseen circumstances. Try to take every precaution to see that it is safely protected.

1. License: Dogs and cats with a current license tag attached to their collars are held at Animal Services Centers for a full ten days instead of the 3 full working days unlicensed strays are held. The owners are notified by telephone and letter. Keep the county informed of any address or telephone number changes after you have applied for your pet's license.

2. Identification Tag: Although many people are reluctant to assume a loose dog may be lost, a message such as "Help me, I'm lost" with your current telephone number and address on the tag will encourage someone to contact you rather than let it wander to starve, become ill, or get hit by a car.

3. Confinement: There is no better protection for your pet than a fenced yard or enclosed kennel area. Do not let your pet run loose. Loose animals have caused serious auto accidents, harassed/killed livestock and other confined animals, damaged property, and become neighborhood nuisances.

4. Obedience: Many local organizations offer low-cost training classes. A well-trained pet can be a joy for you as well as your neighbors. If you are interested in classes, one of the volunteers will be happy to give you the telephone numbers of organizations in your area.

5. Spay and Neuter: Decrease your animal's urge to wander to find a mate. Spaying and neutering eliminates or reduces the attraction of male animals to the female.