Microchips

[Janis]

I live in Central Connecticut and recently lost 2 cats. One of the two was micro chipped, yet our local Humane Society says they do not scan for micro chips. Doesn't the ASPCA scan ALL strays and incoming animals?
Can you think of a reason why our Humane Society would not scan each stray or lost pet that comes in?
Can you suggest what I can do about this..aside from writing a letter to the director

[Special Investigator Diane DiGiacomo]

I don't know why they would not scan the animals that come into the shelter. does the shelter place micro chips into animals? NYC scans all incoming animal for chips.

[Janis]

They claim they have the equipment, but do not have it "set up" yet. I was told that twice by two different shelter employees weeks apart.
I went there for weeks looking for my missing cats, to no avail, but was told the only way my cat would
be identified via micro chip was if it was taken to a vet instead of a shelter. All the area vets scan for chips.
And no, the CT Humane Society does NOT microchip their 'adoptees' to the best of my knowledge.
My daughter lives in NYC and got two cats from the ASPCA and they are chipped, as is her friend's cat who came from the NYC Humane Society. I don't understand CT Humane Society's way of thinking. I keep thinking of pets going to new homes, when in reality they have a home and an owner who loves them and misses them, but aren't scanned for chips, thus do not get reunited with their true owner.
Sorry to hear that Houston is doing the same.

[Katherine]

I think this problem is more common than we think. I live in Houston, TX and the city animal control has not, in the past, scanned for chips. They claim it is due to lack of funds. How rediculous, these scanners couldn't cost that much! The City of Houston animal control organization does not care about reuniting pets with their owners. They'd rather destroy them after 3 short days. Luckily there is a new Director and some positive changes are underway, but not sure if this is one of them. In my opinion, the way to approach this is to find an advocate within the City, Shelter or Organization and bring attention to this issue.

I'd be interested in Diane's suggestions/opnions.

[Janis]

I hope Diane does reply! :) Would love her input, as she is such a respected animal advocate!