What’s happening?
WCRAS officials announced the shelter is ready to install eight reunion stations, or boxes with microchip scanners secured inside, across Round Rock, according to a news release.
The WCRAS is actively looking to partner with businesses or organizations with outdoor spaces accessible to the public at all hours to host the stations. Those interested may contact WCRAS Community Engagement Coordinator April Peiffer at [email protected].
Responsibilities that come with hosting a station include periodically checking the microchip scanner's battery and occasionally giving the station a wipedown, Peiffer said in an email.
Breaking it down
The reunion stations will increase pet owners’ accessibility to microchip scanners, which are one of the most effective tools for returning lost pets to their homes, per the release.
“By placing these scanners where the public can easily access them at any time, we’re removing barriers to fast reunions and keeping families together,” WCRAS Director of Animal Services Misty Valenta said in the release.
A QR code on the station allows residents to receive instructions on how to use the scanner and look up a pet owner’s information registered to the chip, according to the WCRAS’ website.
“Studies have shown—both nationally and in our own local data—that most lost pets are found within two miles of their home,” Valenta said in the release.
Looking ahead
The only current reunion station is at the shelter’s Services Center at 1855 SE Inner Loop, Georgetown. Peiffer said the WCRAS has received funding for the eight additional stations that will be placed in Round Rock, and staff welcomes sponsorships to help expand the program.
“Once we receive further funding, we will branch out to other areas in our jurisdiction,” Peiffer said in an email. “The long-term goal is to have one in every ZIP code that our shelter serves.”
Access to microchip scanners in Williamson County has typically been limited to vet offices and shelters with limited hours, per the release. The new stations would allow for families to find pets sooner and shelters to focus on shelter animals.
“This is a win for families, a win for lost pets and a win for the community,” Valenta said in the release.
