Most folks have heard of microchipping their pet. A "microchip" is an inert rice sized bead that contains an electronic device that holds a code. When the chip is scanned, the scanner induces a signal in the chip that is transmitted to the scanner to reveal the code. If the code is registered with the microchip company, the owner's contact information can be used to contact them. Here's one story that I'll add to the mix of reunions facilitated by this technology:
A new client presented a wonderful cat that they had named Elvis for an exam. Elvis had been hanging out around their house and being fed by them for about 6 months when they decided to formally adopt him and get him caught up on his vaccines and deworming. We identified some significant dental issues that needed to be addressed and the client agreed to leave Elvis to have the dental procedures done.
Before I sedated Elvis, we scanned him and found a chip. I called the new client to let them know the news, knowing they would be disappointed if they couldn't keep Elvis. They graciously said that if Elvis was missing from a home, he could be returned, but they would love to keep him if the original family could not be found. Well, we did find his first family through the microchip company. Elvis had disappeared 6 months earlier and they were relieved to find that he had been taken care since then.
The original family did cat rescue work and had several other cats to care for, so Mrs. was willing to allow the new client to adopt Elvis, but she needed to check with her husband who had been very attached to Elvis. Fortunately, he also agreed to let the new client keep Elvis.
Even though a reunion ultimately did not take place, Elvis's former family has the peace of mind of knowing that he is in a good home. And Elvis had his dental work, is up to date on his routine preventive care, and is living happily in his new home!
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