Shaw Media file photo (Steven Pierson)

Losing a pet can be devastating to a family. It is estimated that one in three pets will go missing in their lifetime, according to the McHenry County Department of Health.

Actions can be put into place to increase the odds of having a missing pet return home, but the best way to keep a pet safe is to take steps to prevent it from going missing in the first place, the release stated.

Even if a pet is indoors-only, a natural disaster or a house visitor could unintentionally let a pet outside or leave a gate to a securely fenced area open. Planning ahead by having a pet microchipped is an effective way to keep tabs on a family pet should it ever go missing.

A microchip is a tiny, electronic chip the same size as a grain of rice. The chip contains only an identification number connected to the owner that helps veterinarians, law enforcement and animal control return pets more quickly and safely.

Having pets microchipped increases the odds of them returning home, especially if the microchip registry has up-to-date contact information for the pet owners. In June, McHenry County Animal Control was able to return seven dogs home quickly thanks to their microchip and owners who kept their contact information current, the release stated.

Here are some suggestions from the. MCDH for pet owners who want to prevent losing a four-legged family member:

Find more information about the benefits of microchipping here. To report a missing pet to the McHenry County Animal Control, call 815-459-6222.

Copyright © 2022 Shaw Local News Network

Copyright © 2022 Shaw Local News Network