There’s an emotional bond between pets and their owners, but many owners in Renton have failed to take two simple steps to protect their pets. By microchipping and licensing pets, they can be easily returned if lost.
Microchipping quickly and painlessly implants a chip, about the size of a grain of rice, between the shoulder blades of your pet. When a lost pet is found, a city animal control officer or a veterinarian will scan the chip to retrieve owner information.
Microchipping normally costs $70 per animal, but the city is offering the service for free to Renton residents thanks to a partnership with the Renton Community Foundation and Eastside Veterinary Associates. Eastside Veterinary Associates (1700 NE 44th Street) will provide the microchipping on a first-come, first-served basis, while funds last. Check-in is 11:30 a.m. Monday–Friday. Please, no calls. Proof of Renton residency is required.
City regulations require all pets over 16 weeks to be licensed. Like microchipping, the license allows for quick and easy owner identification. In Renton, all lost dogs and cats that are licensed will receive a free ride home. Owners of unlicensed pets can be charged up to $250 when claiming their animals through animal control. The charge covers a minimum three days of boarding, shots, and officer’s time. Additionally, only licensed dogs are allowed in Renton’s dog-friendly parks. Pet license applications are available online or at the city’s finance department on the first floor of city hall.
For information on the program, contact Cailín Hunsaker, Parks and Golf Course Director, at 425-430-6606, or [email protected].