Get a chip on your shoulder! The technology to microchip has been around since 1989 and since then approximately 1.5 million dogs and cats have been microchipped.  The microchip is the size of a grain of rice and is encased in a biocompatible glass, the same used in human pacemakers, to prevent rejection from the animal’s body.   The microchip is inserted into the loose skin on the back of the dog’s or cat’s neck using a specially designed implanting device.  Insertion is a quick and easy process that causes no more discomfort than a usual vaccination.  Each microchip carries a unique number that is logged onto a national database.   Against this number key information is stored about the dog and its owner including the dog’s name, the owner’s name and address and a record of the dog’s vaccinations. When your pet is picked up veterinarians and shelters use a scanner to pass over the microchip and low frequency radio waves created by the scanner activate the microchip, allowing the unique number to be read.  Once you have the number, a quick phone call to the microchip company and there is the information on file.   This is an inexpensive investment as it should last for the life of your pet.  It is completely permanent; it can not be cut off or altered.   It is still no guarantee that you will get your pet back if he becomes lost, but it does reduce the risks. Contact your local veterinarian, animal shelters, or dog control officer for advice and prices.  The Houston Humane Society will do it for $25 which includes a lifetime registration.  They also give multiple discounts.