Fish 'n' chips

This cat won't get lost. Well, if it does get lost, it'll be found. Well, it'll be found if the owners keep their information updated with the database. (Shutterstock)Let's make this a small article, folks-as small as the rice-sized microchips that get implanted in cats and dogs.

You may agree with this statement: Every pet owner-for their peace of mind and their cat or dog's future safety-needs an ISO-compliant (for maximum readability everywhere) microchip inserted in that cat or dog. Then the pet owner needs to register that microchip in any of a number of national databases and keep the information updated through any moves or changes in ownership.

Microchips can't guarantee a pet will come home, but they sure improve the chances.

'Google? Give me directions to the person who found my dog.'

Register a microchip with Savethislife.com, and folks who find your dog can Google the ID number and find a website with an instant way to email or text-message you to tell you they've found your dog and how to reach them. It could potentially save a good Samaritan a visit to the veterinarian, a shelter or animal control.

There are a slew of microchip companies on the market-911PetChip, AKC Reunite, PetLink, just to name a few-and many of them encourage humane societies, animal shelters and, yes, veterinary practices to offer the service to clients.

Here's where you fit in when it comes to microchip education.

Here's how to overcome common pet owner objections.

Here's a way to promote microchipping and your practice.

People, you can't heal 'em if your clients can't find 'em!