 is expanding efforts to reunite lost pets with their owners by donating microchip scanners to select fire departments in unincorporated areas of Harris County.){kind=link}
HOUSTON — Harris County Public Health (HCPH) is expanding efforts to reunite lost pets with their owners by donating microchip scanners to select fire departments in unincorporated areas of Harris County.
The initiative, led by HCPH’s Veterinary Public Health division, will give residents more convenient locations to check whether a found pet has a microchip—potentially helping animals return home faster and reducing the number entering local shelters.
Faster Way to Reunite Lost Pets
Under the program, community members who find a stray animal should first contact Harris County Pets at (281) 999-3191 for instructions. In some cases, residents may be directed to a nearby participating fire station where staff can quickly scan the pet for a microchip.
Officials say the program will create more community access points for microchip checks without requiring a trip to an animal shelter.
“A simple microchip scan can make the difference between a pet returning home the same day or being separated for weeks,” said Lauren Davis, associate director for Harris County Veterinary Public Health.
Important Guidelines for Residents
Fire stations participating in the program will only provide microchip scans and cannot house animals. Residents are urged not to leave pets at fire stations, as they are not equipped to care for stray animals.
A map of participating fire departments is expected to be posted soon on the Harris County Pets website, along with the official launch date for the program.
Why Microchipping Matters
According to HCPH, microchipping significantly increases the chances that lost pets can be reunited with their families. Officials encourage pet owners to ensure their animals are microchipped and that their contact information linked to the chip remains up to date.
For more information about lost or found pets, microchipping services, or animal assistance in Harris County, residents can visit countypets.com or call (281) 999-3191.
For more pet wellness recommendations and news, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.