Important Documentation for Your Pet

Us humans rely on many types of identification such as our drivers licenses, credit cards, medical records, and more. We keep these important documents safe for when we need them, and so too should we also keep a similar set of documents for our pets. These can include:

     - An up-to-date record of your pet's vaccinations;
     - The name, address, and telephone number of your vet;
     - Accurate records of your pet's identification tags or markings (license tags, tattoos, microchips, etc);
     - A record of medical conditions, medication, and dosage;
     - A clear, recent photo;
     - Emergency contact person and telephone number. Also include an alternate number where you may be reached, such as a cell phone number.

Your pet's documents can be important in situations such as:

     - Identifying a lost pet. You should also know any unique identifying marks your pet may have. For instance, "a dime-sized patch of red fur under his left front elbow" is an identifying mark. If you have lost your pet, don't make this information public; instead, if someone contacts you claiming to have your pet, ask them to describe the mark to you.

     - Travelling with your pet, whether it's within your own country or to another nation;

     - When leaving your pet with a pet-sitter or boarding him at a kennel;

     - Doggie daycares where pets often interact with one another.

 

An easy way to manage all of your pet's documentation is to pick up a couple of folders at any office supply store and insert one copy of each piece of documentation. This will provide you with two copies - one for yourself, and one extra. .