Pet Identification

Microchipping has become a very popular and safe way to permanently identify your pet.

Microchipping involves placement of a small electronic chip the size and shape of a piece of rice just under the skin in the neck area. A needle is used to inject the chip.

If your pet becomes lost and is brought into a veterinary clinic or the humane society, it can be scanned and the microchip number can be identified. Once the number is identified your owner identification is easily obtained.

We also recommend tattooing as a form of identification. 

The disadvantage of tattoos is that it is possible for them to wear off over time. They are also only traceable in the province that they were originally done in.

The advantage of a tattoo is that it is a visible form of identification that most owners are aware of and know to check for if an animal is found.

By identifying your pet permanently it is helping to ensure that they come home as soon as possible if they happen to be lost.

Another way to help you retrieve your lost pet would be to always have a current city license for them, which in Calgary is mandatory for dogs and cats.

An animal license enables Animal Services to return your missing cat or dog to you as soon as possible.  It also tells strangers your lost pet is not a stray and needs to be returned to its family. 

Dogs must wear their license tags whenever they are off their owner's property.

Cats that have a microchip or legible tattoo do not need to wear their license tags.  Cats must wear their license tags if they have no form of permanent identification, or if they have tattoos that are no longer legible.