Lee County Domestic Animal Services (LCDAS) announces new hours for Pet Microchip ID Clinics for Lee County residents. Staff Veterinarian, Suzanne Vazanna, DVM, will be available from 9 to 11 a.m. the first Friday of each month (excluding holidays) beginning January 7, 2011. The cost is $15 or $5 with proof of public assistance. Owners’ whose pets are both microchipped and sterilized qualify for a reduction in Lee County pet license fees.

A list of private veterinarians and low-cost clinics is available online at www.LeeLostPets.com for anyone who wants their pets sterilized and microchipped. All pet owners, therefore, have affordable options for both procedures, said Ria Brown at Animal Services.

A microchip ID is a small computer chip implanted by injection under the pet’s skin between the shoulder blades. When scanned, the chip’s unique number will identify the owner. Because microchips cannot be removed or lost like collars and tags they are the best means to ensure your pet will be returned if lost.

While microchips and sterilization are not mandatory for pets, the county hopes to encourage more pet owners to do both by offering discounted license fees for pets that are. Just like sterilization reduces the number of pets that enter shelters, microchips reduce the amount of time pets spend in shelters because their owners can be immediately identified, Brown said.

Only 13 percent of pets entering Lee County’s shelter are claimed by owners due to lack of identification. Microchips not only save lives but also taxpayer dollars that would be spent caring for these pets during their stay, Brown said.

For more information about pet licensing, microchip clinics, or pet sterilization call Lee County Domestic Animal Services at (239) 533-7387 (LEE-PETS) or visit the agency’s website at www.LeeLostPets.com.