Countdown: City of Las Vegas pet owners must microchip pets by Aug. 1

by: Lauren Negrete
8 News Now

LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Pet owners in Las Vegas, the clock is ticking to microchip your furry friends.

A mandatory microchip ordinance goes into effect Aug. 1 for City of Las Vegas pet owners. In October 2023, the city council passed the rule which states dogs and cats older than 4 months and residing in the city must be microchipped. 

“We know that The Animal Foundation takes in a lot of animals, but when you’re actually walking by kennel by kennel by kennel, and you’re seeing all of these animals, you really get perspective on the issue here in Las Vegas, which is an overpopulation issue,” Kelsey Pizzi with The Animal Foundation explained. “Too many animals in the community.”

Pizzi said The Animal Foundation receives nearly 60 animals a day. On Wednesday, it was 100.

Pizzi said one in three pets go missing. Microchips are important. 

“We love collars, we love tags, but they can fall off. A microchip is a permanent way to identify your pet.”

It doesn’t track, but rather holds your contact information, so keep it updated.

Pizzi said half the dogs and cats that come in do not have microchips. Microchipping costs $35 at The Animal Foundation’s low-cost clinic.

After Aug. 1, it will be rough for owners, because violators face a misdemeanor, a fine up to $1,000 and possible time behind bars.

Pet owners online are in support, and some are against it. Las Vegas City Councilman Cedric Crear said that’s in every city ordinance.