With warmer weather approaching, the Wisconsin Humane Society is reminding Door County pet owners that spring is an ideal time to microchip their animals.

As spring begins to bloom across the peninsula, pets are spending more time outdoors enjoying walks, parks and backyard playtime. That extra activity can also increase the chances of pets wandering off or becoming lost.

“As temperatures rise in the spring and summer months, we see a lot more pet movement,” said Corey Viars, media specialist for the Wisconsin Humane Society’s Green Bay and Door County campuses. “With that increased activity outdoors, there are more opportunities for pets to break free or get loose.”

“Seasonal events such as summer festivals and fireworks can also startle animals, causing them to run away from home.” Said Viars

Microchipping is considered one of the most effective tools for helping lost pets find their way back to their families. About the size of a grain of rice, the small chip is implanted under the animal’s skin and contains a unique identification number linked to the owner’s contact information.

“Microchipping is, by far, the most reliable way to ensure a lost pet is returned home,” Viars said.

“Every stray animal that comes into a WHS facility is scanned for a microchip,” he added. “This technology allows us to quickly reunite hundreds of animals each year with their families.”

All dogs, cats and rabbits adopted through the Wisconsin Humane Society are microchipped before going to their new homes. Microchipping is also available at WHS vaccine clinics, and pet owners are encouraged to keep their microchip registration information updated with current contact details.