Pet owners urged to re-register their pets immediately after microchip company closure

Microchips have long been a trusted method for reuniting lost pets with their owners. However, the unexpected shutdown of the Texas-based microchip company “Save This Life” has left many pet owners in a bind.

The company ceased operations on February 11 (although one report states Feb.10), without prior notice, leading to concerns about the traceability of pets registered through their system.

Understanding the impact

When a pet is found, shelters and veterinary clinics typically scan for a microchip to access the owner’s contact information. With “Save This Life” no longer operational, their database has become inaccessible. All microchips registered with them are now untraceable.

This means that even if your pet is microchipped, the absence of an active registry could hinder a successful reunion.

Across the country, more than 40 companies provide pet microchips, including Avid Identification Systems, Inc., BuddyID, HomeAgain, and National Microchip Registration. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, only six out of ten pet microchips are registered.

If your pet’s microchip number begins with 991 or 900164, it is a Save This Life microchip, as stated on the company’s website.

Steps to ensure your pet’s safety

Here is what pet owners should do:

• Verify your pet’s microchip: If your pet’s microchip number begins with “991” or “900164”, it’s registered with “Save This Life”. To confirm, visit your veterinarian or local animal shelter to have the microchip scanned.
• Re-register with a new provider: Once you’ve identified the microchip number, promptly register it with an active microchip company.
• Find alternatives. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) provides a Universal Pet Microchip Lookup Tool to assist in finding alternative registries.
• Keep information updated: Ensure that your contact details are current in the new registry. This includes updating your address, phone number, and any other relevant information.

It’s a good idea to regularly verify your pet’s microchip status, especially after moving or changing contact details.

The importance of microchipping

Microchipping remains one of the most effective methods to reunite lost pets with their families. It’s a simple procedure that provides a unique identification number for your pet. However, the microchip is only as effective as the registry it’s linked to. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that your pet’s microchip is registered with an active and reliable company.

Final thoughts

The abrupt closure of “Save This Life” serves as a reminder of the importance of regularly verifying your pet’s microchip registration.

By taking proactive steps to re-register with a reputable provider, you can ensure that your beloved companion remains protected and can be quickly reunited with you in case they ever get lost.

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