Free Microshipping in San Diego, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Solana Beach, Del Mar and Sante

Free microchipping for cats offered this month

By Anne Krueger
Union-Tribune Staff Writer
2:00 a.m. October 5, 2009
Free microchipping for cats is being offered by the county Department of Animal Services this month.
Fewer than 4 percent of lost cats brought to shelters are returned home, and microchipping provides the best chance of reuniting a lost pet with its owner.
The microchip is a small transponder — about the size of a grain of rice — that is injected under the animal's skin and remains there for life. All animals brought into county shelters are scanned for a microchip, and the owner can be located through the number on the microchip.
Cat owners who bring their pets in to be microchipped will also receive a gift from the Petco Foundation and an opportunity to win a special prize at the end of October. In addition, $50 spay and $25 neuter coupons will also be available to cat owners to help with the cost of surgery.
The free microchipping and coupons are available for cat owners served by the county's shelters. Residents in the unincorporated area of the county or the cities of San Diego, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Solana Beach, Del Mar and Santee are eligible.
The program is available at the three county shelters Tuesday through Saturday between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. No appointment is necessary, and cats must be in carriers. The shelters are at 5480 Gaines St., San Diego; 5821 Sweetwater Road, Bonita; and 2481 Palomar Airport Road, Carlsbad.

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