One of our volunteers, Joseph, sent us this story. It is a prime example of how microchipping can reunite lost pets with their owners!
Joseph’s friend, Nikki, found a cat behind the vending machines at a Collingwood grocery store. Nikki cared for the cat, and eventually took it to Belbrae Animal Hospital, where she discovered that it was microchipped. They contacted the owner, Karen, and learned that her cat, Slate, had been missing for 5 years! She had given up hope that he would ever come home and was so happy to be reunited with him!
Below is a picture – Nikki (L) found the cat, Karen (middle) reunited with Slate, and Dr. Mckee (R) from Belbrae.
This story is a great example of why microchipping is so important. Without a microchip, a lost pet may never be reunited with their family. Many people find lost cats and attempt to find their owner, but if they can’t, what happens next? These cats could be re-homed to a friend or family member of the person who found them, or surrendered to the GTHS Shelter to be adopted to another loving family.
Owners that have chosen to have their pets microchipped can enjoy peace of mind that their animal is more likely to be returned to them should they go missing. According to the Journal of American Veterinarian Medical Association, “7,700 stray animals at animal shelters showed that dogs without microchips were returned to their owners 21.9% of the time… microchipped dogs were returned to their owners 52.2% of the time. Cats without microchips were reunited with their owners only 1.8% of the time …microchipped cats went back home 38.5% of the time.”
Luckily, this story had a happy ending and we are so happy for Karen and Slate. We truly believe Joseph when he said ” This was one of the best things I have ever witnessed :)”.
Enjoy being back at home Slate!
***To get your pet microchipped, call your vet today to learn about the prices and book an appointment. It is the best present you can give your pet this holiday season!***
