There was a time when every veterinarian did tattoos. It was the prime identifier for pets. For example, during one of the initial visits that pup had with the veterinarian, there would be a tattoo placed in the ear flap or along the abdomen - and sometimes in both locations.

The problem with the tattoos was that, over the years, they would fade. Sometimes, as the pet matured, the pet's coat could make the tattoo difficult to read. Now the identifier that veterinarians use is the microchip. And a dog in Australia show how effective these microchips are:

"SYDNEY - Nine years after vanishing from outside her Australian family's home, Muffy the dog was found alive and well this month in another backyard — 1,200 miles away — officials said Thursday."

link: Dog found 9 years on, 1,200 miles away

It has been a long journey for Muffy. However, with the help of her microchip, she will be reunited with her family and spend her senior dog years in comfort. It's a happy ending and a terrific argument for having the small microchip implanted in the family pet.

Catherine