About Europetnet

Europetnet is a group of national and local associations based across Europe who register owner information about pets that have been uniquely identified with a transponder. Our job is to reunite lost pets with their owners and our services are available from anywhere at any time.

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Europetnet has member organizations all over Europe. You can find their contact info by clicking the names below. If you have an organization and want to apply for membership in Europetnet, go to the EPN application page.

The Xoloitzcuintle (/zoʊloʊ.iːtsˈkwiːntli/ ZOH-loh-eets-KWEENT-lee), or Xolo for short, is a hairless breed of dog, found in toy, miniature and standard sizes. It is also known as Mexican hairless dog in English speaking countries.

In Nahuatl, from which its English name originates, its name is xōlōitzcuintli [ʃoːloːit͡sˈkʷint͡ɬi] (singular) and xōlōitzcuintin [ʃoːloːit͡sˈkʷintin] (plural). The name xōlōitzcuintli comes from the god Xolotl and itzcuīntli [it͡skʷiːnt͡ɬi], meaning dog in Nahuatl.

A genetic study was recently conducted in order to determine the origin of the Xoloitzcuintli breed. The study did not find a close genetic relationship between Xoloitzcuintli and the Chinese Crested Dog. However, the study showed that this breed did not result from a separate domestication of dogs in the New World. Xoloitzcuintli appear to have been a result of a mixture of several Old World dog breeds.

Health

The Xolo has been developed by natural selection for thousands of years, and is therefore generally not prone to health and structure problems as other dog breeds more modified by human selection efforts. Xolos came from tropical climates and are not suited for outdoor life in colder temperate and northern climates; they should be considered an indoor dog breed. They need bathing, light grooming and skin care as with other dogs of similar physical type, or acne can result. Most skin problems arise from poor breeding, neglect, or over-bathing and over-lotioning, stripping natural protections and clogging pores.

1. Nahuatl Dictionary. (1997). Wired Humanities Project. University of Oregon. Retrieved September 1, 2012
   
2. C. Vilà, J.E. Maldonado, and R.K. Wayne. Phylogenetic relationships, evolution, and genetic diversity of the domestic dog Journal of Heredity (1999) 90(1): 71-77. doi:10.1093/jhered/90.1.71
3. Xolo at Dog-breed-facts.com
4. Coe, Sophie D. (1994) America's first cuisines ISBN 0-292-71159-X
5. Aguilar-Moreno, M. (2006). Handbook to life in the Aztec world. Oxford University Press: USA. ISBN 978-0-19-533083-0
6. "Mythical chupacabra found?". CNN. 1 September 2009. Retrieved 12 May 2010.
7. National Xolo Rescue at the XCA website
8. Xolo News at AKC.org
9. "Inheritance and Breeding Results of Mexican Hairless Dogs", Laboratory Animals, 1993.
10. "FCI-Standard N° 234: XOLOITZCUINTLE (Hairless Variety & Coated Variety)". Fédération Cynologique Internationale. 2011-02-16. Retrieved 2012-08-20.
11. Xoloitzcuintli Club of America
12. Drogemuller, C.; E. K. Karlsson, M. K. Hytonen, M. Perloski, G. Dolf, K. Sainio, H. Lohi, K. Lindblad-Toh, and T. Leeb. "A Mutation in Hairless Dogs Implicates FOXI3". Science 321 (5895):1462, 2008.
13. Kimura, T; Doi, K. "Spontaneous Comedones on the Skin of Hairless Descendants of Mexican Hairless Dogs." Experimental Animals, 45(4), pp 377-384 1996
14. Kimura, T. "Studies on Development of Hairless Descendants of Mexican Hairless Dogs and Their Uses in Dermatological Science." Experimental Animals, 45(1), pp 1-13 1996

In popular culture

101 Dalmatians II: Patch's London Adventure

What is a transponder?

A transponder is a tiny device of the size of a grain of rice that is injected under the skin of the pet. It contains the microchip with the animal’s identification number, the so called microchip number, the antenna for the communication and the glass to protect the electronics. These 3 components make a transponder. There are 2 official injection sites in the world which are described in ISO 15639-1, injection site companion animals. Several laws in the world depending on the region are referring to one of these sites. Your local Veterinarian knows the way.

What kind of information does the microchip of the transponder hold?

Transponders permanently identify the animal with a 15 digit worldwide unique microchip number. The microchip according to ISO 11784 does not contain any other information.

How can a microchip number be used to track my pet?

If your pet is found, it will be presented at a Veterinarian or a shelter which usually have a reader. Veterinarians or the pet rescue groups will scan your pet for the presence of a transponder. A search in the EPN database informs about the database and the country in which your animal is registered If the EPN search does not give a sufficient result, the stuff contacts actively the transponder manufacturers to get traceability information for the reunification of the found pet with its owner.

Which information do I need to provide to the database?

When your pet is microchipped, it is of essential need that you register your pet in a database, ideally in a database which is member of EPN as then your pet is as well safely registered travelling abroad. Your name, home address, phone numbers and email address are submitted. Your pet’s name, breed, sex, special markings or colouring will be registered as well. Some databases recommend the submission of a photograph.

It is very important to update this information directly if you move your home or if your phone number changes.

How much does the identification with a transponder and the registration of my pet cost?

Microchipping costs vary depending on where you live, the typical situation in your country as well as the particularities of your Veterinary. Some databases register for free, some databases will charge a fee for storing your contact information. This fee may be paid one time or as a “yearly membership.” Contact your local veterinarian and database for more details.

Is microchipping painful for my pet?

Microchipping is a quick and relatively painless procedure. Principally the transponder will be set without any anaesthesia, but in some cases your veterinarian may inject a little anaesthetic before injecting the transponder. The transponder is injected using a dedicated applicator. The discomfort involved is similar to that of vaccination. Transponders are often injectted at the same time as the spay or neuter surgery – while the pet is already under anaesthesia.

Are there different types of transponders?

Yes. The types are called ISO and non-ISO transponders. A transponder according to ISO needs to be conform to ISO 11784 and tested according to ISO 24631-1.The existing laws for official identification are referring to ISO 11784.

My pet has a non-ISO chip, which was implanted in Canada. Is this a problem? According to the EU regulation an imported animal needs to be identified by an ISO transponder or in case the transponder is not ISO, the pet owner needs to bring his own reader. There is no guarantee at customs for the availability of a multi reader. 

We are moving to Germany. Does my pet have the right transponder?

The EU law for travelling with a pet clearly stipulates that the animal needs to have the EU passport and the transponder identification. This transponder needs to be an ISO transponder. Your veterinarian will record the microchip number on your animal’s pet passport.

However, if you are bringing your pet from North America, be sure that an ISO transponder is placed or you need your own reader for the non-ISO technology. We recommend that before travelling you make control the functionality of the transponder of your pet.

My pet is lost and has a transponder. What can I do?

1. Contact your database and report your pet as lost or stolen. Many databases will distribute a “lost pet” report to local animal control, rescue groups and veterinarians.
2. Directly contact your local animal control, veterinarians and pet shelters with your pet’s information, recent photograph, and microchip number.
3. If you think your pet has been stolen, contact your local police. You are also welcome to report such a case to EPN.

I don’t remember which database my pet’s transponder is registered in. How can I find out?

Type your pet’s microchip number into Europetnet’s ID search engine. It will inform you of the database company’s name and contact information.

What is a microchip?

A microchip is a tiny transponder (about the size of a grain of rice) that is implanted under the skin in pets. The chip is usually implanted between the shoulder blades. 

What sort of information does the microchip hold?

Microchips permanently identify the animal with a unique number. The microchip itself contains no other information.

How can a microchip number be used to track my pet?

If your pet is found, veterinarians and pet rescue groups will scan your pet for a chip. There are a certain number of microchip companies in each region of the world – local companies are then contacted and the number is referenced.

Once there is a match with a microchip company, the company will contact the pet’s owner.

What information do I need to provide the microchip company?

When your pet is microchipped, you must register your pet with the microchip’s manufacturer. Your name, home address, phone numbers and email address are submitted. Your pet’s name, breed, sex, special markings or colouring will be registered as well. Some companies recommend submission of a photograph.

It is very important to update this information if you move or if your phone number changes.

How much does a microchip cost?

Microchipping costs vary depending on where you live. Some companies will also charge a fee for storing your contact information. This fee may be paid one time or as a “yearly membership.”  Contact your local veterinarian for more details.

Is microchipping painful for my pet?

Microchipping is a quick and relatively painless procedure. Your veterinarian may inject a little anesthetic into the skin before implanting the microchip.  The chip is implanted using a syringe applicator, much like vaccination. The discomfort involved is similar to that of vaccination. Microchips are often implanted at the same time as the spay or neuter surgery – while the pet is under anesthesia.

Are there different types of microchips?

Yes. The types are called ISO and non-ISO.  ISO chips are used widely in Europe but some pets may receive non-ISO chips in North America. 

My pet has a non-ISO chip, which was implanted in Canada. Is this a problem?

Microchip scanners nowadays are “universal” and will read all types of chips. Non-ISO chips are only a problem if the pet is to be exported from North America. 

We are moving to Germany. Does my pet have the right microchip?

All pets in Europe receive ISO microchips, which are acceptable for movement within the European Union. Your veterinarian will record the microchip number on your pet passport.

However, if you are bringing your pet from North America, be sure that an ISO microchip is placed. Your veterinarian can scan your pet to be sure that the microchip is correct for import to Europe.  If your pet has a non-ISO chip, it is not a problem to implant a second ISO chip.

My pet is lost and has a microchip. What can I do?

1. Contact your microchip company and report your pet as lost or stolen. Many microchip companies will distribute a “lost pet” report to local animal control, rescue groups and veterinarians.
2. Directly contact your local animal control, veterinarians and pet shelters with your pet’s information, recent photograph, and microchip number.
3. If you think your pet has been stolen, contact your local police.

I don’t know what company manufactured my pet’s chip. How can I find out?

Type your pet’s microchip number into Europetnet’s ID search engine. It will inform you of the chip company’s name and contact information.

The Miniature American Shepherd is a herding dog with a roots from the Australian Shepherd. It is a compact dog with a strong work ethic. As such, they have been lauded by enthusiasts as an excellent choice for dogs sports such as herding, agility and flyball. Recently, the Miniature American Shepherd Club of the USA (MASCUSA), have been working to help create a new breed to be recognized by the American Kennel Club and the United Kennel Club. The AKC provides this service to allow breeds to continue to develop while providing them with the security of a reliable and reputable avenue to maintain their records.The Miniature American Shepherd is a small size herding dog that originated in the United States. He is slightly longer than tall with bone that is moderate and in proportion to body size and height without extremes. Movement is smooth, easy, and balanced. Exceptional agility combined with strength and stamina allows for working over a variety of terrain. This highly versatile, energetic dog makes an excellent athlete with superior intelligence and a willingness to please those to whom he is devoted. He is both a loyal companion and a biddable worker, which is evident in his watchful expression. He traditionally has a docked or natural bobtail.

Temperament

Intelligent, willing to please, and devoted, the Miniature American Shepherd is a herding dog that can be an excellent family pet. Owners must devote time to socialization and training to direct the breeds strong working instincts and drive. They are naturally wary of strangers but should not be shy, and they are able to adjust their demeanor to given situations, whether work or play. The breed responds well to obedience training and has a natural sensitivity that makes it a good choice for therapy work and search and rescue.The Miniature American Shepherd is intelligent, primarily a working dog of strong herding and guardian instincts. An exceptional companion, he is versatile and easily trained, performing his assigned tasks with great style and enthusiasm. Although reserved with strangers, he does not exhibit shyness. He is a resilient and persistent worker, who adjusts his demeanor and arousal appropriately to the task at hand. With his family he is protective, good natured, devoted and loyal.

Size and Proportion

Males: 14–18 inches; Females: 13–17 inches; 20–40 pounds (weight range approximate/not specified in AKC standard)

Measuring from the point of the shoulder to the point of the buttocks and from the highest point of the shoulder blade to the ground, he is slightly longer than tall. Solidly built with moderate bone in proportion to body height and size.

Color and Coat

Black, blue merle, red, red merle, with or without tan and/or white markings in specified areas. The nose and lips should be will colored black on blues merles and blacks, liver on red merles and reds.

Moderation is the overall impression of the coat. Hair is of medium texture, straight to wavy, weather resistant, and of medium length. The undercoat varies in quantity with variations in climate. Hair is short and smooth on the head and front of the legs. The backs of forelegs and breeches are moderately feathered. There is a moderate mane and frill, more pronounced in dogs than in bitches. Hair may be trimmed on the ears, feet, back of hocks, pasterns, and tail, otherwise he is to be shown in a natural coat. Untrimmed whiskers are preferred. Severe Fault: Non-typical coats.The Miniature American Shepherd has medium length weather resistant double coat. It can be straight or wavy in texture.

The Miniature Australian Shepherd was developed by breeding smaller Australian Shepherds for the desired size. The breed is rapidly increasing in popularity among those interested in a compact dog with a strong dog work ethic. They are especially popular in dog agility, and do well in other dog sports including herding, obedience trial, disc dog, flyball and many other activities.

The Miniature Fox Terrier is a small, fine, lightweight working terrier developed as a hunting dog and vermin router. It is known colloquially in its native Australia as the “Mini Foxie”.

Health

Miniature Fox Terriers are generally healthy and hardy despite their size. They need little maintenance; some individuals that do not run often on hard surfaces will need regular nail clipping. Luxating patellae, a common ailment among small breeds, occurs frequently among backyard breeding dogs, bred by people who are not registered breeders; the Mini Foxie Club rules state that, before breeding occurs, a health declaration must be obtained from a veterinarian and that the dog must be classified and graded by the club. This rule has greatly helped to reduce the incidence of luxating patellae in the breed. Meals should always be small and nutritious; this is a small breed, with a small sized stomach. To avoid or minimise painful ailments such as arthritis, dogs need to be kept trim and athletic.

Longevity

Miniature Fox Terriers are renowned for their good health and longevity, often reaching an advanced age. With good care, Miniature Fox Terriers can live as long as 18 to 20 years, and sometimes beyond. Factors influencing longevity include a healthy diet, a sense of belonging, sufficient exercise, room to run around and generally how happy the dog is.

The miniature pinscher (zwergpinscher, min pin) is a small breed of dog originating from Germany. The breed's earliest ancestors may have included the German Pinscher mixed with Italian greyhounds and dachshunds. The international kennel club, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale, lists the miniature pinscher in Group 2, Section 1.1 Pinscher, along with the Doberman pinscher, the German Pinscher, the Austrian Pinscher, and the other toy pinscher, the affenpinscher. Other kennel clubs list the miniature pinscher in the Toy Group or Companion Group. The miniature pinscher is colloquially known as the "King of the Toys". Any group of three or more miniature pinscher dogs together are considered a "gang".

History

Historical artifacts and paintings indicate that the "min pin" is a very old breed, but factual documentation begins less than 200 years ago, which leaves the breed's actual origins open to debate. There is a drawing by Jean Bungartz, published in 1888 comparing the Miniature Pinscher to the German Pinscher.

The Miniature Schnauzer is a breed of small dog of the Schnauzer type that originated in Germany in the mid-to-late 19th century. Miniature Schnauzers developed from crosses between the Standard Schnauzer and one or more smaller breeds such as the Poodle and Affenpinscher, as farmers bred a small dog that was an efficient ratter. They are described as "spunky" The first recorded Miniature Schnauzer appeared in 1888, and the first exhibition was held in 1899.The American Kennel Club accepted registration of the new breed in 1926, two years after Miniature Schnauzers were introduced to the United States. International Kennel Club classifications vary; in the United Kingdom and Australia they fall within the Utility Group, while in Canada they are in the Working Group (dogs). In the AKC the Miniature Schnauzer is classed with the terriers. The start of the modern Miniature Schnauzer is generally considered to begin with Ch. Dorem Display, the first Miniature Schnauzer to win Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. He was born 5 April 1945 and lived to be nearly fourteen.

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