Lee County Domestic Animal Services will hold Pet Microchip ID Clinics for dogs and cats the first Friday of every other month beginning in June. The clinics will run from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the agency’s veterinary clinic, 5600 Banner Drive, in Fort Myers. Only pets that are both microchipped and sterilized will qualify for reduced license fees so pet owners should definitely take advantage of the opportunity. The cost of the microchip ID is just $15 or $5 with proof of public assistance.

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 insure your pet will be returned if lost.

Owners should check with their regular veterinarian about having their pets sterilized and microchipped or have their pet microchipped at any of the LCDAS clinics held on June 1, Aug. 3, Oct. 5, and Dec. 7.

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

For more information about pet license fees, microchip clinics, or pet sterilization call Lee County Domestic Animal Services’ clinic at (239) 533-9234 or spay@leegov.com. Information is also available on the agency’s website at www.LeeLostPets.com .