For the Love of Pets: The importance of pet collars

Even though it may be tempting to take your pet’s collar off when inside your home, your pet must wear a collar both indoors and out.

Accidents can happen when you least expect them, and it is best to be prepared.

Just as a smoke alarm is a safety device to protect you and your family, a collar and ID tag is a safety device to protect your pet.

You should not take a collar off your pet any more than you would take the batteries out of your smoke alarm.

How to fit a collar

● Adjust the collar for a comfortable, yet snug fit around your pet’s neck.
● See how many fingers you can fit between the collar and your pet’s neck. You should be able to get one finger under the collar for cats, two fingers for dogs.
● Finally, check to make sure it’s not so loose that it can slip over the pet’s head.

Proper collar maintenance

Once a month, or once a week for puppies and kittens, check your pet’s collar to ensure it still has the proper fit.

Check your pet’s collar for signs of wear and tear as well.

If it looks like it is getting frayed and may fall apart, drop by Animal Humane Society to purchase a new one.

While microchips are helpful in reuniting pets with their owners, an ID tag is the fastest and easiest way for your lost pet to get home.

Many people will help out if they see a lost pet. However, few (if any!) carry around a microchip scanner in their pocket.

An ID tag will give them a way to contact you right away and ensure your pet is back safely in your home as soon as possible.

An ID tag also identifies that your lost pet has a family that is missing them.

This is especially important for cats as it prevents people from assuming your cat is just an outdoor cat and does not need assistance.

Sponsored by Massy Trading Barbados