Have you checked your dog or cat's identification tags recently? I check Hobbes' tags only when I put a new rabies tag on every three years. A phone call from my cousin in New York changed my thoughts on checking dog tags!

An older dog walked out her doggie door and went outside. Someone left the yard gate open and the dog explored. Her people didn't know she was gone until the next morning!

So what does this has to do with the dog's tags? My cousin's story explains what happened.

The lessons learned are:

• Be sure your dog/cat's tags are easy to read.
• Be sure your current information is on the tag including cell phone number.
• If you dog does not wear a collar all the time, please have her micro-chipped.
• If you have a doggie door, check the yard fence is secure and your dog is in the house at night.
• I am always upset when I find a dog without identification tags. Please have identification on your pet at all times.

Now go check your pet's identification tag immediately. Don't think you will do it later - you may forget.  

Thank you everyone for checking your pet's tags.

Enjoy this wonderful autumn weather!

Take care,