If you have ever lost a pet then you know what a devastating and often heartbreaking experience it can be. According to the American Humane Association, one in three pets will become lost in their lifetime, many of which will never find their way home again. Nationwide it is estimated that only 10-30 percent of lost dogs will ever be returned to their families and sadly the number drops to just two percent for cats.

Here at the Humane Society of Ventura County lost animals enter the shelter every day, the majority of which have no identification, making it nearly impossible for their families to be contacted. Many lost animals may be picked up by a stranger and re-homed without their families ever knowing what happened to them. To avoid the guilt and heartbreak of losing a family member, we encourage everyone to make sure that all animals, including those who live entirely indoors, have proper identification. Both an ID tag and microchip (in the case that a tag falls off) is the ideal combination to keep your pet safe. With all the advancements in pet tracking technology, an ID tag is still the simplest and fastest way to help ensure you are reunited with a lost animal. 

An ID tag is included with every animal adopted from the Humane Society of Ventura County and replacement tags can be purchased for only $5. Unfortunately, after 17 years, our ID engraver machine has sadly broke down beyond repair. The cost for a new ID engraver is $3,289, however the ability to return lost animals to their homes is priceless! Before you start your weekend, won't you please consider making a donation to help lost animals be reunited with their families?

CLICK HERE to make a one time donation to the Humane Society of Ventura County!