The dog days of summer are an excellent time to make sure your pets - cats and dogs alike - have up-to-date information on file. While you’re at it, you can update home products to keep your favorite friends safe and secure. Here are a few tips from the American Veterinary Medical Association:

1. Make sure identification tags have current information and replace worn out tags that have faded information with new, legible ones.

2. If your pets aren’t already microchipped, talk with your veterinarian about having this done. This simple procedure can greatly improve your chances of getting your pets back if they become lost.

3. Confirm your contact information on any local pet pages, like Finding Rover, is also up-to-date.

4. Snap a photo of all of your pets that shows any distinctive markings. Position them near a standard item, like a refrigerator or laptop computer, so their relative size is clear.

5. Walk your yard and confirm fences are secure enough to contain your pet. If anything has come loose, now is the time to get it repaired.

6. Check your veterinary records to make sure all vaccinations are up-to-date and, if you carry pet insurance, confirm your policy is still what you need.