Consumer Alert: Pet Microchip Company Shuts Down, Leaving Some Pets Unprotected

Consumer Alert: Pet Microchip Company Shuts Down, Leaving Some Pets Unprotected

Pet owners should act quickly to re-register their pet's microchip information following the sudden shutdown of Save This Life, a pet microchip company. The closure has rendered all of its microchips inactive, potentially leaving thousands of pets without a way to be identified if lost. The website as of this writting is still operational however, the google business listing shows as permantly closed.

Lost Information Could Put Pets at Risk

Save This Life microchips typically stored essential details, including:
Emergency contacts
Medical history and special needs
Vaccination records

With the company’s abrupt closure, all this information has been wiped, making it impossible for shelters, veterinarians, and rescues to trace lost pets back to their owners through the now-defunct database.

Pet Owners Must Take Immediate Action

To restore their pet’s microchip functionality, owners must re-register their chip number with a different microchip company. This can typically be done through another manufacturer’s website or by contacting them directly. Common alternatives include HomeAgain and 24PetWatch—two microchip providers frequently used in Idaho and nationwide.

“It might cost a small fee, but a lot of people would say, especially if you've lost a pet, they would pay anything to get their pet back," said Kristine Schellhaas, a representative for the Idaho Humane Society, in an interview with KTVB.

Schellhaas emphasized that this situation serves as a reminder for all pet owners to verify and update their pet’s microchip information regularly to ensure it is current and accessible.

How to Check and Update Your Pet’s Microchip

Scan Your Pet’s Microchip – A veterinarian or animal shelter can quickly check if your pet has a microchip by scanning the area between their shoulder blades.
Find the Chip Number – Once scanned, you will receive a unique identification number linked to the chip.
Verify Registration – Use an online universal microchip lookup tool or contact a microchip provider to check if your pet’s chip is active.
Re-Register If Needed – If your pet's chip is linked to Save This Life, immediately register it with another company to restore its effectiveness.

Why Microchips Matter

Microchips, about the size of a grain of rice, are a permanent form of pet identification that helps reunite lost animals with their owners. Unlike collars and tags, which can fall off, microchips provide a secure way to ensure pets can always be traced back home—but only if the registration is active and up to date.

Act Now to Protect Your Pet

With Save This Life microchips now inactive, pet owners should take immediate steps to re-register their pet’s chip with a reliable provider. Don't wait—ensuring your pet's microchip is properly registered could mean the difference between being reunited or losing them forever.

For more information, contact your veterinarian or visit a trusted microchip registry online.