Some shelters are now implanting microchips in all cats and dogs that are adopted. Call first to ensure your vet has a microchip scanner. If the pet has a tag, call the number on the tag. How to prevent your pet from becoming lost Spay or Neuter your pets as soon as possible. Both male and female pets that are not spayed or neutered are much more likely to go looking for companionship and to produce unwanted litters.
Cats can wear stretch collars with flat tags that are riveted directly into the collar.
Microchips are also a good idea for a backup method. Keep cats indoors. When dogs are let outside, they should be in a fenced yard or on a leash. Leash laws apply to cats as well as dogs.