Community Efforts to Reunite Lost Pets: New Microchip Scanner Available in Hattiesburg
In a caring outreach to pet owners and animal lovers in Hattiesburg, Advanced Pet Care has recently donated a microchip scanner that is now publicly accessible outside Cattiesburg Cafe. This initiative is a game-changer for those who come across lost pets outside of typical business hours, providing a vital resource for reuniting furry friends with their families.
The Importance of Accessibility
Dr. Brenda Sumrall, a veterinarian at Advanced Pet Care, emphasizes the difference that accessibility can make when it comes to reuniting lost pets. "Lots of times people find pets when veterinary clinics are not open and animal shelters are not open,” she explains. Her commitment to making this microchip scanner available is rooted in the desire to reduce the waiting time it takes for lost animals to return home.
How to Use the Scanner
Using the microchip scanner is straightforward. Upon discovering a stray, the finder simply presses a button and slowly moves the device over the pet’s body. Dr. Sumrall warns that "chips can migrate," which means it’s essential to scan various parts of the animal’s body, including the neck and shoulders. Interestingly, she shares that microchips have even been found in unexpected places, such as an animal’s ear.
If the scanner detects a microchip, it will reveal a unique identification number. This number is crucial as it can then be used to look up the pet’s registration information online. Dr. Sumrall assures that comprehensive instructions are available, guiding users on how to navigate to the appropriate websites to contact the pet’s owner.
Importance of Microchipping
The introduction of the scanner also serves as a reminder for pet owners to ensure their animals are microchipped and properly registered. Dr. Sumrall mentions, “Any of the veterinary clinics will implant a microchip,” and highlights that Advanced Pet Care will offer a special rate of just $20 for microchipping. This initiative aims to alleviate the common situation where microchips are implanted but not registered, which complicates the process of returning lost pets.
Registering a microchip is a crucial step, as it allows lost pets to be reunited with their families more quickly. Dr. Sumrall notes that without a microchip, finding a lost pet can turn into a daunting task, involving social media outreach, lost-and-found postings, and much more. "With a microchip, if somebody comes to scan that, you may get your pet back within an hour,” she says, presenting the idea that a simple chip can dramatically speed up reunions.
Location and Availability of the Scanner
The microchip scanner is conveniently located outside Cattiesburg Cafe, which is situated at 5268 Old Highway 11, Suite 9, in Hattiesburg. The community is encouraged to use the scanner at any time, making it a truly accessible resource for those in need.
While Cattiesburg Cafe doesn’t take in lost or stray pets, the establishment is more than willing to host the scanner, recognizing the importance of supporting the community in connecting pets with their owners.
Community Call to Action
Advanced Pet Care’s initiative aligns perfectly with a broader conversation about pet safety and responsibility within the community. By utilizing this scanner, pet lovers in Hattiesburg can play a vital role in ensuring that lost pets find their way back home.
In a world where pets are dearly loved members of families, helping an animal return home can be one of the most heartwarming experiences one can have. This microchip scanner not only symbolizes technology’s role in caring for animals but also highlights the power of community and compassion.
