Pearl River County Introduces Microchip Scanning Stations for Lost Pets

A Timely Solution for Lost Pets

In Pearl River County, the familiar scenario of a lost pet has taken a proactive turn. Residents can now act swiftly when a dog slips out of the yard or a cat disappears overnight. With two newly installed microchip scanning stations at local police departments, individuals who find stray animals can check for microchips immediately—no need to wait for animal control or make a trip to the shelter.

Convenient Public Microchip Stations

These cutting-edge microchip scanning stations are stationed outside the Picayune and Poplarville police departments. Designed for accessibility, they allow anyone who finds a lost cat or dog to scan for a microchip at any time of the day or night. This convenience not only improves the chances of pets being reunited with their owners, but it also alleviates the burden on local shelters overwhelmed with intake.

The Vision Behind the Initiative

The heart of this initiative lies in a simple yet impactful goal: to reunite lost pets with their families more quickly while minimizing shelter overcrowding. The idea was brought to life by Haley Crowe, a dedicated volunteer with the Pearl River County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA). After witnessing a growing number of Facebook posts about lost pets, Crowe recognized the desperate need for a solution that could expedite the process of reuniting pets with their families.

Collaboration with Local Authorities

After approaching local officials about her idea, Crowe was pleasantly surprised to find that plans for the microchip scanning stations were already underway. She was invited by a police officer to discuss the project further, paving the way for a collaborative effort to make these stations a reality. This kind of teamwork between community members and local authorities exemplifies how grassroots ideas can transform into substantial community resources.

The Impact on Animal Welfare

The operational data reveals a compelling case for the importance of microchipping. In 2025 alone, the Pearl River County SPCA took in an astonishing 3,165 animals. However, a mere 122 were reunited with their owners, with only 31 of those being microchipped. This stark statistic highlights the crucial role that microchips play in helping pets find their way back home.

Without proper identification, many animals linger in shelters for extended periods, often experiencing stress and anxiety in the unfamiliar environment. “When you bring an animal in, they kind of just shut down, and they don’t do well in a shelter situation,” Crowe explains.

Future Plans for Microchipping Clinics

Recognizing the urgent need to increase microchipping rates, Donna Lowe, a volunteer and foster coordinator for the Pearl River County SPCA, aims to secure grant funding for free microchipping clinics. Currently, the cost of microchipping is $20 per pet, a fee that some pet owners may struggle to afford. By increasing the number of microchipped pets, the potential to improve return rates and minimize the emotional and physical stress on both animals and shelter staff becomes more promising.

Enhanced Technology for Greater Efficiency

The currently established scanning stations are already a remarkable asset, operating 24 hours a day to serve the community. To further enhance this initiative, more advanced scanners funded by Watts Veterinary Services of Picayune are expected to be rolled out soon. This advancement will enable the quick and efficient processing of microchip scans, making the reunion process even smoother.

A Community Driven Solution

The introduction of public microchip scanning stations in Pearl River County exemplifies the community’s commitment to animal welfare. By focusing on technology, teamwork, and compassion, local residents are taking significant steps towards ensuring that no pet remains lost for long, while also addressing issues of overcrowding in shelters. As these initiatives continue to develop, they hold the promise of creating a culture of responsible pet ownership and fostering stronger connections between pets and their families.