It seems that almost all pets have one thing in common: they want to explore the world around them. Its not uncommon to hear pet owners talk about their four-legged Houdini jumping fences or digging under them and getting out. You might have invested some money in dog tags, but these can be a hazard to your pet - getting caught or tangled and possibly choking them. Dog tags also fall off fairly easily, and if your pet becomes lost, then likely it will be turned in as a stray. Without identification, there is no way to reconnect you with your beloved companion.
 
Microchip pet identification is used in cases where collars and ID tags have been lost.
Imbedding a microchip does not involve surgery as it is injected into a thickly padded area between the shoulder blades. A quick pinch is all your pet feels, and then it's smooth sailing!
 
Microchips are easy to track. Each chip will have a unique number, readable by a hand held scanner. The microchip company is then called and the number is given to the operator. The operator will look in their database for the owner's information, so that you can be alerted as to your pet's location. 

Microchips are affordable too! The insertion cost varies by practitioner, with the average cost being $45. The microchip number then needs to be registered with the microchip company, which shouldn't cost more than $25. To get a more accurate estimate, contact your veterinarian. 

Gone are the days when you go on vacation and leave the four-legged kids at home. 

Today, pet vacations offer pet menus, gourmet pet treats, pet sitting, unique pet toys, complimentary pet bowls, and pet massages! No longer is there any need to leave your fabulous feline or perky pooch behind. Some cruise lines have Kennel Masters that oversee the various needs and desires of your furry companion. Pet-friendly services and amenities include decadence for your pet, like fresh-baked gourmet biscuits at turn down, comfortable beds and blankets, toys, cat posts and scratchers, and a selection of premium pet foods.
 
Booking a hotel? There are lots of great resources for determining what hotels within your price range will allow your pet to stay the night. Do some research beforehand, so that your evening consists of comfortably lounging with your pet, and not driving around to different hotels inquiring about their pet services. The Internet is a great resource for finding pet friendly hotels and hospitality services, and many offer memberships that include discounts.

If you are flying and want to take your pet with you, contact the airline ahead of time to determine the cost and where your pet can ride. At times, there are restrictions on certain types of pets to reduce your pet's risk of illness. If your pet is unable to accompany you in the cabin, you might consider the temperament of your companion before sticking them plane-side. Many pets experience a high amount of stress from this experience, and it may cause more problems than it's worth.

No matter where you take your pet, you should check in with their veterinarian before you leave. Your pet might need extra vaccinations, or your vet might have some good travel recommendations specific to your companion. Be sure to take some items from home that your pet is comfortable with, and you should have a memorable vacation.  

Some pets are downright finicky about everything: food, bed, and even particular spots in the house where they elect to groom.  They might be sweet to you, but you may be surprised to uncover a streak of jealousy in them.

It's not unusual for cats and dogs to express their anxieties over a new person in the household by seeming to forget that they're housetrained. Cats have a reputation for urinating on thier owner's belongings, and dogs may find a new place to mark as their comfort zone. This is not spiteful; rather it is a stress response and should be treated by giving your pet more things to make them comfortable, while firmly reinforcing the rules. 

When people experiences issues with their dogs because of a relationship, the troublemaker is often a dog who is accustomed to being the center of attenion, constantly petted, and given frequent treats. These dogs may act out when they are forced to share thier human. They may jump inbetween their human and the new person or bark, growl, and block the new partner from the bedroom.

Cats may tend to hide when they don't like a person. They may run away, if they are really put off by the new match, but this is unlikely if they are given reassurances. Cats might snub the newcomer for some time, and could act aggressively by hissing, spitting, and possibly clawing or nipping.

 
If you find yourself in a standoff with your partner's pet, talk to your partner and arrange to be the good guy for several weeks - maybe even a few months. Deliver treats, favorite routines, feed the pet regularly if living together, and take the animal for walks. If they are afraid and tempted to run, try tossing some treats their way before you get too close.