Microchip Scans

This information is being posted to inform or remind pet owners that our local animal shelter has not been scanning incoming animals for a microchip.

The shelter does have a scanner, though I'm not sure which one it is. It has been described as one that will read the chips Dr. (name of one particular vet omitted) uses, so it does not sound like a Universal scanner. There is a short description of a Universal in the October 2008 Paws for Pets column.

When I asked pet bloggers for scanner information last month, the Universal most used or recommended is the Home Again scanner. It would be helpful if the county can acquire one. But meanwhile, the shelter should be utilizing the one they have.

I emailed a copy of the Paws column to County Manager Kyle Hood on October 23. A few days ago, he said the subject will be discussed at an upcoming county work session. I believe he said at the next one.

Some county residents have one or more pets with a microchip. If you do, I hope you will call the county office at 706.647.7012 and politely let the county manager and/or your county commissioners know you would like to see microchip scanning become a regular practice at our shelter for all incoming animals.

That "feral" cat might not be feral or stray, but frightened because he was lost or abandoned and has been fighting for survival among the ferals. Or that owner turn-in might be someone's pet that turned up as a "stray," starved and/or ill and was fed for a time before being turned into the shelter.

Euthanizing pets or adopting them out without an effort to locate an owner should end.

One recent example of a happy ending due to a microchip: George the cat has been reunited with his family after being missing for 13 years.

Scroll down to view the latest newspaper shelter photos.