The Town of Cowansville is reminding citizens the importance of microchipping pets.

There has been a huge increase in animal adoptions during the pandemic, earning these pets the nickname “pandemic puppies." There is a need for education because some of these “pandemic puppies” belong to first time pet owners. The Town of Cowansville is campaigning for citizens to microchip their pets and, at the same time, educating animal owners.

“The two main advantages of a microchip are: if your animal is lost it is much faster to have your animal returned and it could save your animals life,” stated Dany Ménard, director of development at the Association of Animal Health Technicians of Quebec.

Microchips are injected into the back of an animal’s neck. When scanned, a number will appear directing the operator to a file with all the owner’s personal information.

Microchipping a pet is extremely important if the animal ever arrives at a shelter; it will ensure a safe return of the animal to its owner.

“If an animal arrives at the shelter and is not microchipped then it will be processed for adoption,” said Ménard.

If you have a pet, the town is asking that residents remember to microchip them, even if they are located in the countryside.

Here is Dany Ménard (French audio only):