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Microchip separates lost from found

The door opens and Skippy runs outside. One of your worst fears just came to life. Your fur baby, best friend, loving companion is now outside by himself and running down the street.

You call everyone you can think of to help you locate Skippy. One of the calls you make is to the Humane Society to file a lost report and they ask, “Does Skippy have a microchip?”   

What is a microchip and how important is this for your beloved pet to have? A microchip is a very tiny device containing identification numbers that is inserted under the skin of a dog or cat. It is relatively painless and only takes a few seconds to insert. Microchipping can be done at any age; however, we recommend the chipping be done as soon as you welcome a new fur baby into your life.

The number on the microchip is registered to the animal and owner. Microchips are read by a scanner. Most veterinarians and shelters are equipped with one. Microchips are relatively low in cost, and are inserted by a veterinarian or upon adoption from a shelter.

Are microchips important? If you want to increase the chances of getting your lost pet back, then yes. A microchip is one of the best things you can do for your pet. It is estimated that around 50% of all lost animals are reunited with their family thanks to a microchip.

Please keep in mind that your information must be kept up-to-date with the microchip company in order to find your pet.  

A lost dog or cat, if found, is brought to Huntingdon County Humane Society. One of the first things a staff member does is scan for a microchip. Without the microchip, there is little chance to locate the owner who may be frantically searching for their beloved pet. Unless the owner has called the shelter and given information for a lost report, it is unlikely the owner and pet will be reunited without a microchip.

Unfortunately, many times the animal is placed up for adoption after the hold time has expired if the owner is not located. With a microchip, the animal’s family can be notified immediately and the pet returned.  

If my beloved Daisy were ever to become lost, I want to do everything possible to get her back with me. This includes a microchip with up-to-date information.

Skippy has been missing for two days now and has been picked up by a Good Samaritan and taken to the Humane Society. Will you be able to be reunited with Skippy right away thanks to a microchip?

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