BATON ROUGE, La., Sept. 18, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In the wake of recent flooding, Jefferson Animal Hospital in Baton Rouge, Louisiana is encouraging owners to have their pets microchipped.

For many Louisiana residents, adopting a dog or cat is more than just adding an animal to their household. It is bringing a new family member into the fold. That's why Jefferson Animal Hospital is encouraging all pet owners to have their furry companions microchipped.

"Microchipping is especially important here in Baton Rouge," says Dr. Frederick Michaelson, the center's veterinarian. "With the recent flooding and the current hurricane season, we've seen a lot of owners searching for their missing pets. With this technology, the ability to match lost or injured animals with their owners becomes much easier and happens more quickly."

Although there are several companies that offer microchip products, Jefferson Animal Hospital has chosen to work with one of the larger and well-known companies—HomeAgain. Unlike tags and collars, a microchip stays with the pet permanently. It cannot be lost, stolen or removed.

"The cost is relatively minor and an appointment takes only a short period of time," continues the veterinarian. "No anesthesia is required and there is no postoperative care."

During the process, a small microchip is injected between the pet's shoulder blades, where it will remain in place for the remainder of the animal's life. The HomeAgain microchip is specially designed not to move around, keeping it in the same place where the vet places it forever.

Experts also agree that the process is relatively painless for the animal. "It is no more uncomfortable than a routine vaccination," Dr. Frederick Michaelson explains.

If a lost pet is found and taken to a veterinarian, the chip will be scanned and HomeAgain will be contacted. From there, they will give you a call or send an email letting you know that your dog or cat has been found safely and where to reclaim them. Therefore it is very important to keep your contact information updated in the system.

The HomeAgain program is available nationwide, so it doesn't matter if your pet is lost while on vacation or just taken to a different part of the country.

"There have been plenty of stories where a pet gets lost and is gone for several years," Michaelson recalls. "Then a vet in a different state happens to come across the HomeAgain chip and reunites the animal with their original owner. It really is a cool process."

To learn more about the HomeAgain program and pet microchipping, please call Jefferson Animal Hospital at (225) 927-2344.

About Jefferson Animal Hospital

Jefferson Animal Hospital is a full-service veterinary center located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Dr. Frederick Michaelson and his team offer an array of preventative and emergency care options for both dogs and cats. For more information on their veterinary services, visit their website at http://jahvet.com/.

Jefferson Animal Hospital, (225) 927-2344

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