LINN  —Osage Regional Veterinary Clinic staff are delighted to donate a universal microchip reader to Sheriff Mike Bonham and Linn Police Chief Sam Ford.

“We all got together and discussed a way to improve the safety of pets in Osage County,” said Dr. Nan Keilholz on behalf of Dr. Kyle Kuschel, Dr. Hilary Haslag, and staff members.

“This is good news for Osage County,” said Bonham, noting his department received reports of missing dogs last year. “Thank you, Osage Vet Clinic, for your hard work on this project.”

A microchip about the size of a grain of rice containing information about your pet is implanted under the skin. Microchips provide secure, reliable, and permanent identification, which significantly increases the likelihood that your lost pet will be returned home to you.

A microchip is not a GPS tracking device; it emits a unique identification number when scanned by a chip reader.

“It only does its job if it is registered with up-to-date contact information in a pet recovery database and if the information it holds can be read by a microchip reader,” Dr. Kuschel explained. “Law enforcement and our clinic have spent countless hours working to reunite local animals with their rightful owners. Most locals know that we are in desperate need of an animal shelter/control in our area.”

While Osage County may not realize that possibility anytime soon, Dr. Keilholz encouraged pet owners to have their pets microchipped. “A great way to ensure your pets make it home after a ‘misadventure’ is to have a well-fitted collar with clear identification that provides up-to-date contact information and lets everyone know your pet is microchipped,” she added.

Collars can be a fun way to express your pet’s personality, but remember, they are not just necklaces. Regretfully, most lost animals are found without identification or a collar. “This is where microchipping is vital for proving ownership and ensuring your pet makes it home where it belongs,” said Dr. Kuschel.

Law enforcement will now have a microchip reader, which could eliminate the cost of holding an animal — no matter the time of day or night — while trying to locate its owner.

“We are so excited to work together to get your pets back home safely as soon as possible,” said Dr. Haslag. “If you were waiting for a sign, here it is. Microchip your pets today. Ensure your pet’s safety and health, and help us spread the word in our community.”

For more information about microchips, contact the Osage Regional Veterinary Clinic at 573-897-3186 and a staff member can provide details.

To have law enforcement check a pet, call the Osage County Sheriff’s Office at 573-897-3927 or the Linn Police Department at 573-897-4234.