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Your anonymized data helps researchers understand reunification patterns and improve outcomes for all pets—not just yours.
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Join thousands of families protecting their pets through verified microchip registration.
Homeward Bound Program
Protect Your Pet.
Strengthen Your Community.
Microchip registration is the single most effective way to ensure your pet comes home if lost. Through Homeward Bound, you're not just protecting your family—you're building a community where no pet stays lost.
20× Cats with microchips are 20× more likely to be reunited
2.4× Dogs with microchips are 2.4× more likely to be reunited
The Problem
A Chip Alone Isn't Enough
Millions of pets have microchips. But a chip without current registration is a dead end.
35%
of microchips have outdated contact information when pets arrive at shelters
9.8%
of microchipped pets were never registered in any database
17.2%
of chips are registered in a different database than shelters check
Homeward Bound Solves This
We verify your registration, remind you to update contact info, and confirm your chip is working through periodic scans. No more "digital dead ends."
Beyond Personal Benefit
You're Not Just Protecting Your Pet
Every registration strengthens a community-wide safety net. Here's how your participation helps everyone.
Reduce Shelter Burden
Faster reunifications mean fewer animals in shelters, freeing resources for pets who truly need rescue and adoption services.
Reduce Euthanasia
Unidentified pets face the highest euthanasia risk. Every registered chip is one more animal that can be returned instead of processed as "stray."
Build Community Trust
When neighbors know pets are registered, they're more likely to scan found animals and reach out—creating a culture of looking out for each other.
Support First Responders
In emergencies and disasters, registered pets can be quickly identified and reunited, reducing chaos and freeing responders for critical tasks.
Set the Standard
Your participation encourages friends, family, and neighbors to register their pets too. Be the spark that protects an entire community.
Understanding Microchips
What is Microchipping?
A microchip is a tiny electronic device (about the size of a grain of rice) implanted under your pet's skin, typically between the shoulder blades.
How It Works
The chip contains a unique identification number. When scanned, this number links to your contact information in a registry database.
Is It Safe?
Yes. Microchipping is a routine procedure performed by veterinarians. The chip is biocompatible and designed to last your pet's lifetime with no batteries or moving parts.
What It Doesn't Do
Microchips are not GPS trackers. They don't actively transmit location. They provide identification when scanned by a shelter, vet, or rescue organization.
Actual Size: ~12mm
Lifespan 25+ years
Battery None required
Procedure time ~30 seconds
Pain level Similar to vaccination
Your Path
How to Get Started
Whether your pet already has a microchip or needs one, we'll guide you through the process.
Path A
My Pet Has a Microchip
1
Verify Registration
Check if your chip is registered and contact info is current. Many owners discover their chip was never registered or has old information.
2
Join Homeward Bound
Register through Pet911 by PetNexus to link your chip to our verification system and start earning protective action credits.
3
Schedule Scan Confirmation
Visit a participating location to confirm your chip is scannable and properly functioning.
Path B
My Pet Needs a Microchip
1
Find a Partner Location
Locate a participating veterinarian or shelter in your area that offers microchipping services.
2
Get Chipped & Registered
The procedure takes seconds. Your chip will be immediately registered with Pet911 by PetNexus and linked to Homeward Bound.
3
Start Earning Credits
Your first protective action is complete! Continue with periodic scans to maintain your protection status.
Be Prepared
What to Bring
Make your appointment smooth by having these items ready:
- Valid ID
Government-issued photo identification
- Current Phone Number
The number you'll answer—35% of reunification failures are due to wrong numbers
- Email Address
For registration confirmation and update reminders
- Current Address
Where your pet lives (not a P.O. Box)
- Existing Chip Number (if known)
Check previous vet records or adoption paperwork
- Your Pet
On leash or in carrier for safety
Common Questions
Frequently Asked
Is there any cost to participate?
No. Homeward Bound registration and scan confirmations are free. If your pet needs a new microchip, participating locations may offer reduced rates, but standard veterinary fees may apply.
What if my pet is already registered somewhere else?
No problem. You can maintain your existing registration and still participate in Homeward Bound. We work alongside existing registries, not against them.
How often should I get my pet scanned?
We recommend scan confirmations every 6-12 months. This verifies the chip hasn't migrated and is still readable. Each scan earns protective action credits.
What happens to my data?
Your contact information is used solely for pet reunification. Anonymized, aggregated data may be used for research to improve outcomes. We never sell personal information. See our Privacy Policy.
Can any pet be microchipped?
Most dogs and cats can be safely microchipped. For exotic pets, birds, or very small animals, consult your veterinarian about appropriate options.
What about the sweepstakes?
Protective actions earn entries into periodic drawings for pet supplies (capped at $250). No purchase required. Void where prohibited. See Official Rules.
Ready to Protect Your Pet?
Join Homeward Bound through Pet911 by PetNexus. Registration takes just a few minutes.
Pet911 by PetNexus is the official registration platform for Homeward Bound. By registering, you agree to the program's Official Rules.