EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — As National Chip Your Pet Month kicks off this May, El Paso Animal Services is reminding pet owners that a registered, up-to-date microchip can make all the difference in bringing a lost pet home.

More than 8,000 pets have entered the City shelter so far in 2026, and many arrive without identification or with outdated microchip records, one of the biggest barriers to reuniting lost pets with their families, city officials said.

“Microchips are one of the most reliable ways to reunite lost pets with their families, but only when the information is accurate,” said Michael Wachsmann, Interim Director of El Paso Animal Services. “Outdated or unregistered chips can break that connection, leaving pets in the shelter longer and sometimes keeping them from ever making it back home.”

How to Update Your Pet’s Microchip:Locate your pet’s microchip number.If you’re unsure of the number, visit your veterinarian or stop by any El Paso Fire Department station to have your pet scanned.Look up the chip manufacturer.Visit PetMicrochipLookup.org and enter the chip number to find the manufacturer and instructions for updating your contact details.Update your contact information.Log in to the chip manufacturer’s database and ensure your phone number, address, and email are current.Add extra protection.You can also register your pet’s microchip for free at www.MyPetHealth.com and PetcoLove.org/lost for added security.

Don’t Have a Microchip Yet?

Microchipping is quick, safe, and typically costs around $25 at most veterinary clinics. El Paso Animal Services also hosts free microchipping clinics and microchip checks throughout the year through its Resource Rover program:

Sunday, May 10, 20269 a.m. at The Bronco Swapmeet8408 Alameda Ave.Friday, May 15, 202610 a.m. at Pet’s Barn1900 Lee Trevino Dr.Saturday, May 23, 20268 a.m. at The Market EP114 W. Mills St.Friday, May 29, 202610 a.m. at Spetakular11675 Montwood Dr.

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