PIMA COUNTY, (Nov. 27, 2024) – Pima Animal Care Center is offering free microchips to Pima County pets every day between Nov. 27 and Jan. 5.
Industry data show that chipped pets are roughly three times more likely to make it home if they’re lost; however, just 15% of the nearly 10,000 stray pets PACC has taken in so far this year have been chipped or wearing a tag.
“With the holidays upon us, bringing the chaos of visitors and open doors, and New Year’s fireworks just around the corner, it’s a critical time of year to protect your pet,” said Monica Dangler, PACC director. “By chipping your pet, you’re both drastically increasing their chance of making it home and keeping pets in the shelter safer by preventing overcrowding.”
Those interested in receiving a chip at PACC should visit the shelter’s Pet Support lobby during business hours. The microchip offer is open to both dogs and cats of Pima County residents.
The microchip effort is spreading beyond Pima County. PACC will join Pinal Animal Care and Control in Casa Grande, which will also offer free chips to Pinal County residents during business hours.
“Pets don’t understand county lines,” said Audra Michael, Pinal’s director. “We’re hopeful that by partnering with PACC on this effort, we’ll be able to get more Southern Arizona pets back to their families, where they belong.”
PACC’s Ajo substation, located at 1249 N. Well Road, will also provide free microchips during their open hours on Wednesdays, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
PACC’s main Tucson location, 4000 N. Silverbell Road, is open from noon to 7 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, from 1:30 to 7 p.m. on Wednesdays, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends. To see all available pets and services, please visit pima.gov/animalcare.