20220411-4b: Funding to Support Equitable Microchipping of Pets in Austin — original pdf

Recommendation

ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20220411-4b Seconded By: Jo Anne Norton Date: April 11, 2022 Subject: Budget Item: Funding to Support Equitable Microchipping of Pets in Austin Motioned By: Luis Herrera Recommendation The Austin Animal Advisory Commission recommends that the Austin City Council approve $100,000 in the FY23 budget to be used to make microchipping of pets free (and therefore equitable) in the City of Austin, at least until that amount is spent. Description of Recommendation to Council The chips, in bulk, are very cheap. The $100,000, in addition to help purchase the chips, can be used for paying the staff for the expenses of setting up a movable microchipping clinic, and the travel costs associated with such a program. Also, important would be the capturing of data so to determine how much money may be saved by the program keeping animals out of the shelter. Rationale: Microchipping is an inexpensive and efficient way of using new technology to link a pet to a owner. This helps to rapidly get lost pets back to their families and keep them out of the shelter. Vote: 10 For: Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Absent: Attest: 2 (plus one vacancy) Director, CASO Austin Animal Services Office 1 of 1