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player ready...The Lake County Health Department and the Vernon Hills Police Department will host a pet vaccination and microchip clinic from 9 a.m. to noon April 25.
Unlike previous clinics, organizers said this year’s event will be held indoors at the Vernon Hills Public Works facility, 490 Evergreen Drive.
According to a news release announcing the effort, having a pet microchipped increases the probability of getting a pet back if it is lost or stolen. Collars and tags can be lost or removed, but a microchip lasts for the life of the pet, organizers said. Most shelters and veterinarians have scanners to check for a microchip, so an owner can be notified within hours of the pet being scanned. The Vernon Hills Police Department also has a scanner.
The microchip is about the size of a grain of rice and is implanted under the pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades.
The cost for a microchip is $15 per pet, cash only at the April 25 event. The pet will then also be registered with the Lake County Animal Care and Control Program. For an additional fee, the pet owner can also register for additional services with Home Again, the chip provider. The services include 24-hour notification, travel assistance if a pet is found far from home, and Lost Pet Alerts that are sent out to shelters, veterinarians and concerned citizens who have signed up to be on the lookout for lost pets.
All animals brought to the clinic on April 25 must be at least 4 months old. Cats must be in a carrier and dogs must be leashed. If a dog owner has reason to believe that the animal may bite, the owner is asked to bring a muzzle.
A complete list of vaccination costs can be found at http://www.vhpd.com. For additional information, contact Community Service Officer Lon Paulausky at (847) 362-4449.
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