Michigan’s First Pet Microchip Scanning Station Opens in Kent County

Every time I see a lost pet post on social media it breaks my heart. I can't imagine what it would be like to lose a furry family member. Well, here's something that will definitely help local residents reunite with their lost pets!

New Pet Microchip Scanning Station Opens in Cedar Springs

A first-of-its kind in Michigan, the Kent County Animal Shelter has launched a 24-hour microchip scanning station. It's located outside the Kent County North Campus in Cedar Springs, Mich., at 4191 17 Mile Rd. NE.

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According to the Kent County Animal Shelter, this site was chosen specifically to help alleviate transportation challenges faced by Northern Kent County residents when retrieving their pets from shelters.

Kent County Animal Shelter Director Angela Hollinshead explains that transportation to the shelter and time off of work are often reasons owners are unable to come for their pets. The new 24-hour microchip identification system will allow families to reunite with pets before they are taken to the shelter.

The initiative is part of Kent County Animal Shelter's goal to improve the reclaim rate for lost dogs by their owners. The shelter says that despite a nearly 200% increase in stray dogs entering the shelter in 2019, there has been a noticeable decline in the number of owners coming to get their pets. This results in the shelter being at or over capacity.

The shelter also recently donated scanners to local Kent County law enforcement agencies.

How to Use Kent County's New Pet Microchip Identification System

The new microchip scanning station is housed in weatherproof, secure casing. You will find written instructions in both Spanish and English on the wall nearby.

Here's what you do:

You can learn more about getting your pet microchipped here.