Pet microchips available at discount during June, July

After Floridians experienced eight hurricanes in the past two seasons, Lee County Animal Services is discounting the price of nationally registered microchip pet IDs as one step to encourage pet preparedness.

During June and July the cost for the microchip is $10, a 40 percent discount. According to Animal Services, all pets with microchips that entered the Animal Services' shelter during the past two hurricane seasons were reunited with their owners.

Owners also are urged to make sure their pets receive updated vaccinations. According to Animal Services, stress makes animals more susceptible to disease, and exposure may increase if pets become lost or are sheltered with other animals. If displaced by a storm, pets may be in closer contact with wildlife and face an increased rabies risk, Animal Services said.

Several vaccination and identification clinics are planned during July and August. The Animal Services Mobile Clinic will travel to low-income neighborhoods and provide pet owners the opportunity to have their pets vaccinated for rabies, purchase county licenses and microchips at reduced rates.

Animal Services is also selling pet hurricane kits. These include pet first-aid items for wounds and minor illnesses, plus emergency information for making plans for pets. The kits are valued at $60, but are priced at $30.

Pet owners may make their own kits. Additional information about kit contents and hurricane guidelines may be found at Animal Services' Web site at www.leelostpets.com, or residents may call (239) 432-2083.