What is a microchip??

A microchip is a second form of identification. It does NOT replace an ID tag nor a pet license. The microchip is the size of a long grain piece of rice and is inserted usually under the skin like a shot. It cannot be seen. How does it work? When an animal is found without a collar or some kind of obvious identification, the pet can be taken to any vet or shelter to be scanned. If the pet has a chip, the identification number of the chip will show on the scanner and the number given to the microchip company. As long as the microchip company has your correct information (don't forget to update when things change)... you and your pet should be reunited! Keep in mind, this is NOT like a GPS or LoJack. You CANNOT track down your pet. But it does give you better odds to find your pet. The microchip is NATION-WIDE. Shelters should scan every dog / cat that comes in. I have seen the microchip create happy endings! For more information contact a microchip company, vet office, or your local shelter!

Local Places to * Town of Apple Valley will microchip cats/dogs for the residents within the "Town" limits only. Cost: $20 total. Location: Animal Control - 13643 Tonikan Rd. 760-240-7000 x 7555. * PAL Humane Society will microchip at Petsmart Fridays 12-4pm, Saturdays 10am-4pm, and Tues.-Fri. by appt. Contact Mary for details. Cost: $15 total. 760-240-6848. * Victor Valley Animal Protective League will microchip for (last known) $25. Contact them for times and verify pricing. Open Tues. - Sat. 760-247-2102. Most, if not all, vets also microchip, but these are some lower cost resources.

Microchip Companies: AVID: 1-800-336-2843 Web: www.avidmicrochip.com

Home Again: 1-866-738-4324 Web: www.homeagainid.com

24 Hour Pet Watch: 1-866-597-2424 Web: www.24petwatch.com

Companion Animal Recovery: 1-800-252-7894 Web: www.akccar.org