Animal Services Hosting Free Pet Microchipping Event

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News

Volusia County Animal Services is hosting a one-day free microchipping event on Saturday, December 5.

The event aims to celebrate the reopening of the County’s Animal Services headquarters while showing off the facility’s brand new, animal-themed paint job.

“When a pet goes missing, having a microchip increases the odds of a happy reunion, It is the next best thing to a lost pet being able to phone home and tell its owner where to find it.” said Volusia County Animal Services Director Adam Leath in a press release.

Implanting a microchip is an inexpensive, and pain-free way to recover a lost pet. Microchips are about the size of a grain of rice and are implanted just under the skin. The use of a hand-held wand over the animal's back will provide an ID code which will lead to the owner's name and contact information. 

The event is a free drive-thru event to help with convenience and social distancing measures, with residents staying in their vehicles. Staff will remove pets from their vehicles, bringing them into the on-site facility for the quick and painless procedure. 

Facial coverings are encouraged.

According to a release, to expedite the process, those who are planning to get a pet microchipped are urged to print out the consent form and fill it out before arriving. The form can be downloaded here: https://bit.ly/3lELxbz.

“Our residents have always been extremely supportive of the programs and services we provide,” said Leath. “This is our way to give back to the community and help people and pets. Whether they’re getting a pet microchipped or just want to come by and check out our new paint scheme, we’re hoping for a good turnout.”

This is the third free microchip event that Volusia County Animal Services has hosted in the last six months.