No one likes to lose a pet, but when we do, it can be a nerve-wracking experience- especially if your pet doesn't have its ID. Pet ID? It sounds strange, but it's becoming more and more popular among pet owners. The most popular way of getting a pet ID is by microchipping.

A microchip is a small transmitter- about the size of a grain of rice- that is embedded under your pet's skin. When a scanner is passed over the microchip, the ID chip sends out a signal that conveys the unique identification number of the microchip. Microchips can be useful not just in missing pet cases, but also ownership disputes, and medical decisions for your pet.

Microchipping has become so important in the pet lovers community, that in some areas it is illegal to own a dog that isn't microchipped. Animal shelters often microchip each dog that leaves it's care and is adopted.

A microchip is not to be confused with a GPS, however. A GPS can track the whereabouts of your pet, whereas a microchip, simply serves as proof of ownership and, essentially, a return address.

Okay, so microchips are useful- but how do I know that they're safe for my pet?

If you're worried about the sanitary aspect of inserting a chip into your pet's skin, you shouldn't be. Most microchips are shipped in individual syringes that are made specifically for microchipping, and until the day they are used, have not been opened. Microchipping doesn't harm your pet. In fact, most pets don't even react to receiving their microchip.

For your microchip to be effective, it needs to be registered. Without registration, a microchip can only be traced back to where it was sold, and not directly back to its owner. If someone happens to find a pet with an unregistered microchip, they can quickly register the chip in their name and take the animal home with them.

Registering a microchip is easy. It can be online for a small, one-time fee, or more often than not, free. Doing it online is as simple as filling out information about your pet and microchip (ID number, your name, address, your pet's name, etc.).

Microchipping can be done in animal hospitals, veterinary clinics, and other places that specialize in pet care, but the greatest place to go is Clifton Avenue Animal Hospital. Working there is a team of people who love animals just as much as you do, and will be sure to take great care of your pet- even while they're just getting a simple microchip.