Microchip your pets & use this system. I've found strays and re-homed them totally effectively due to their chips. It's not very costly and it can mean the difference between getting your lost pet home safely & never seeing them again. Lately there is discussion of whether these cause health problems, which would be tragic since they are so effective at identifying lost pets.

Pros: cheap, effective, reliable

Cons: none (but health risks are rumored)

both our dogs are microchipped, its the best piece of mind you can buy... no matter what, even if we're states away and one of them sneaks out of the car or something, they can be found! For someone who loves our dogs as much as we do, these are invaluable!

Pros: My dogs wouldn't be without their microchips!

Cons: Doggies say "ouch that pinched!"

a great service to help return your pets home if they've become lost.

Pros: Improves chances of returning animals home

Cons: Hopefully nothing

Not only does the Home Again chip provide positive identification if a pet is lost or stolen, but it now has a service to help if a pet is missing. When notified of a lost pet, it will e-mail vets, shelters and other members within a 25-mile radius, and it will offer advice on how to search for your pet. It can also relay medical information about your pet and can recommend vet services if you are traveling or have an emergency. All our dogs have the Home Again chip.

Pros: Proves ownership for lost or stolen pets

Cons: Controversy about causing cancer in mice

Microchipping is your best chance of getting your pet back if they are ever lost. Home Again seems alright, not sure how they compare with other companies as all our pets have Home Again chips.

Pros: Reassuring form of ID for your pet

Cons: Service?