National Pet ID Week, taking place from April 17 to 23, 2025, is a valuable opportunity for veterinarians to guide pet owners on ensuring their pets have reliable identification in case they get lost.

With an estimated one in three pets going missing at some point, it’s crucial to take steps to improve their chances of being safely recovered. A large number of animals found in shelters are lost pets, and reuniting them with their owners can help alleviate overcrowding and free up resources for truly homeless animals.

The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) advocates for permanent identification methods and recommends radio-frequency identification (RFID) products, such as microchips or transponders, that meet International Standards Organization (ISO) technology standards. Veterinarians are encouraged to use RFID products listed on the National Animal Companion Coalition (NCAC) website, as these have undergone thorough review and meet quality guidelines.

For more information on microchip identification and recommendations, visit the CVMA’s website.