MIDDLEBURY — Homeward Bound, Addison County’s Humane Society, has announced the dates of their 2018 Open Door Microchip Clinics. The first of the clinics will be offered on Saturday, Jan. 27,  from 10 a.m. to noon, at Homeward Bound, 236 Boardman St.
A micro-chip is a small electronic chip (about the size of a piece of rice) that is inserted under the skin between a pet’s shoulder blades. The chip contains all of the owner’s contact information. Most veterinary offices and shelters have the ability to scan for this chip and quickly identify the owner. The entire process takes less than two minutes and is almost painless.
The clinic is open to both dogs and cats. The cost of micro-chipping is $35 and this covers the microchip implant and initial registration. Shelter staff asks that all dogs be on leash and cats be in carriers for this event. Interested parties can call 802-388-1100 to pre-register. The service will be provided on a first come, first serve basis.
 “Micro-chipping enables people to safeguard their pets should they ever become lost,” says Homeward Bound executive director Jessica Danyow. “It substantially increases the odds that the animals will be reunited with their family. We feel that our upcoming clinic is a valuable service to the greater community.”
Further microchip clinics will run Saturdays, March 10, May 19, July 14, Sept. 15, and Nov. 10 at Homeward Bound.