Almost everyone loves chips made from potatoes. However, it appears that some pet owners are not very keen on the microchip variety. It is now the law in Portugal that all pet animals, be they a cat, a dog or a ferret, must carry an identity chip.
Most people who own a cat or a dog love it to bits and look after their best friend superbly well. But one of the worst mishaps that can happen to either a dog or a cat is getting lost and separated from their owner. It is an extremely traumatic experience for them – an experience that could so easily be avoided if a little thought and care ensures that they are microchipped.
We regularly either rescue dogs ourselves, or we have had dogs brought to us because they are lost. And the first thing that we do is look for the microchip. When we find it, we can ensure that the owner is contacted as soon as possible and a happy reunion occurs. These reunions are an absolute joy to witness.
Microchipping is a quick procedure performed by a vet and costs around 25€. Usually, the animal concerned (with a loving owner in attendance) doesn’t register any discomfort whatsoever. It is much less stressful than getting lost and separated from the owner for sometimes weeks or even months on end.
Please remember that a reunited cat or dog is an ecstatically happy dog or cat – and a very happy owner too, of course.
Anne Hodges is a volunteer for Cadela Carlota.
