Keeping Your Pet Safe with Microchips

Microchips are a small yet powerful tool to reunite lost pets with their families. At the Humane Society of Charlotte (HSC), we’re committed to pet safety and want you to have all the facts on microchips, registration updates, and the resources we use to protect your furry friends.

What Are Microchips and Why They Matter

A microchip is a tiny, implantable device placed under your pet’s skin—usually between the shoulder blades. Each microchip carries a unique identification number that, when scanned, links your pet to your contact information at time of adoption. While collars and tags offer immediate identification, microchips serve as a reliable backup if those are lost or removed.

Key Benefits:

  • Increased Reunification Chances: Pets with microchips are three times more likely to be reunited with their owners.

  • Reliable Identification: Microchips provide a permanent form of ID, ensuring that updated contact details can be quickly accessed if your pet is found.

Learn more about the basics here.

Important Update on Microchip Registrations

Save this Life Microchip Notice

Recent updates from February 2025 have highlighted a need for pet parents using Save this Life microchips to re-register their devices. Due to permanent business disruptions, re-registration is essential to maintain accurate tracking. Here are your options:

  1. Free Registry Service:
    Register at www.freepetchipregistry.com, which connects to the AAHA Universal Pet Microchip Lookup Tool.

  2. Registry with Datamars/PetLink:
    Call 1-877-PETLINK (738-5465) or visit Petlink Registration. Use discount code STLDOLLAR to register for only $1. (Offer valid through March 31, 2025.)

A Note from HSC

It is important to emphasize that the Humane Society of Charlotte has never used Save this Life as a microchip provider. All animals adopted from HSC have microchips from our trusted partners and are not affected by this re-registration update.

Our Trusted Partner: 24Hour PetWatch

At HSC, we use 24Hour PetWatch as our primary microchip provider. Their state-of-the-art technology ensures that your pet’s microchip data is secure and easily accessible.

  • Why 24Hour PetWatch?

    • Reliable Service: Continuous monitoring and rapid response capabilities keep your pet’s information current.

    • Easy Access: Their online portal and customer support make it simple for pet parents to update registration details.

For additional resources or support, visit the 24Hour PetWatch website.

Practical Tips for Pet Owners

  • Always Use a Collar and Tag: These offer immediate identification, while your pet’s microchip acts as a backup.

  • Keep Your Information Updated: Regularly update your contact details in your pet’s microchip registry to ensure swift reunions.

  • Inform Your Local Veterinarian: Ensure your veterinarian knows your pet is microchipped and have current registration information on file.

In Conclusion

Microchips play a critical role in pet safety by offering a reliable way to reconnect lost pets with their families. By registering (or re-registering) your pet’s microchip and keeping your contact information current, you help ensure that your furry friend can always find their way home. The Humane Society of Charlotte remains dedicated to promoting pet care best practices, and our partnership with 24Hour PetWatch underscores our commitment to your pet’s safety.

Stay informed, keep your registration up-to-date, and together, let’s keep our pets safe and secure.

For more information or assistance with microchip registration, please contact HSC.