City of New Smyrna Beach issued the following announcement on Aug. 9.
Being prepared and having a plan for you and your pets could be a lifesaver during a tropical weather system or other type of emergency. And that includes having your pets permanently identified in case they get separated from their owner during a disaster.
This Saturday, Aug. 14, Volusia County Animal Services will be hosting a free, drive-thru pet microchip event. And the first 300 vehicles will get an added gift – a free pet disaster kit. The event will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Animal Services’ headquarters, 1250 Indian Lake Road, Daytona Beach. About the size of a grain of rice, microchips are implanted just under the skin. With the wave of a hand-held wand over the pet’s back, the ID code on the microchip will lead to the owner’s name and contact information. Animal Services has microchipped nearly 1,300 pets for free during five previous events in the past year. Animal Services Director Adam Leath says it’s the best way to ensure a happy reunion with a lost pet. And that’s the reason for the free community events.
“We believe in microchipping that strongly, and we have the lost pet stories with happy endings to prove its worth,” said Leath. “We want to make sure that every pet finds its way home. A microchip is the best way to do that.”
Animal Services also is teaming up with Volusia County Emergency Management to provide the free pet disaster kits. They’ll come in a five-gallon bucket and will include everything from pet food, water, a leash and a first aid kit to a pet collar light, glow sticks, a waste disposal bag dispenser and wipes – a $70 value.
“These are some of the essentials for your pets that you might not have time to think about in a disaster,” said Leath. “So we’re going to think about it for you. It’s our way of helping to make sure that you and your pets are disaster ready.”
For safety and convenience, residents will remain in their vehicle during the event and are encouraged to wear a face covering. For animals getting microchipped, dogs should be on a leash and all other pets, including cats, should be in a carrier. Staff will remove the pet from the vehicle for the quick and painless procedure. Just a few minutes later and the pets will be returned to their owner. To expedite service at the event, the microchip consent form can be printed and filled out before arrival. The form can be downloaded at https://bit.ly/3lELxbz
Original source can be found here.
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