Pima County's Pima Animal Care Center (PACC) is offering free microchip services for local pets starting today, Nov. 27, through Jan. 5. This effort comes in direct response to data indicating that a mere 15% of nearly 10,000 stray pets at PACC this year were microchipped or wearing a tag, despite chipped pets being roughly three times more likely to be reunited with their owners if lost. PACC Director Monica Dangler emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "With the holidays upon us, bringing the chaos of visitors and open doors, and New Year's fireworks just around the corner, it's a critical time of year to protect your pet," as stated by Pima County.
Residents interested in the microchipping services are encouraged to bring their pets to PACC's shelter during regular business hours. An increase in returning pets to their homes helps to mitigate shelter overcrowding and contributes to overall animal welfare. "By chipping your pet, you're both drastically increasing their chance of making it home and keeping pets in the shelter safer by preventing overcrowding," Dangler told their county's newsroom.
Recognizing that pets know no jurisdictional bounds, PACC has found an ally in Pinal Animal Care and Control in Casa Grande, which will also be offering free microchip services to its residents. Pinal’s director, Audra Michael, shed light on the collaborative effort, "Pets don't understand county lines," she said. "We're hopeful that by partnering with PACC on this effort, we'll be able to get more Southern Arizona pets back to their families, where they belong," as per Pima County.
PACC’s Ajo substation is also participating in the program, offering free microchips during its open hours. The schedule and location details can be found on PACC's official website, where further information on this initiative and other pet-related services is available.
