Pet Tech: Microchip Your Pet

ID tags on collars aren't perfect. We put them on our pets in case of emergencies, but there are problems with that. Some pets are wily and crafty. They don't like their collar and will do anything to get it off! 'Break-away' collars are often ineffective for identifying pets since they will easily get lost. 'Pet-nappers' can easily take off a collar and ID tag. Microchips are an effective solution to those fears.

ID microchips, no bigger than a grain of rice, can be implanted by veterinarians into dogs, cats and even many reptiles. The procedure is relatively non-invasive and takes moments to complete - a lot like getting a shot. The device holds a number that can be scanned; this number correlates to your ownership information in a national database.

For a limited time, Washoe County Regional Animal Services is offering FREE microchipping for your pet. Although the procedure is relatively low-cost to begin with, some of us don't have the extra budget to make it happen. You can find dates and locations of this free service here: http://www.washoecounty.us/animal .