Microchipped Dog Euthanized: A Case for Updated Registration
In a tragic situation that has sparked concern among pet owners, a South Florida man, Lazaro Gonzalez, has encountered a devastating loss regarding his dog, King Odin. Despite being microchipped, King Odin’s fate took a dire turn when the dog was euthanized by Miami-Dade Animal Services.
The Importance of Microchipping
Microchipping is widely recognized as a vital safety measure for pets, providing a permanent form of identification. Promising to help reunite lost pets with their owners, microchips serve as a crucial line of defense against loss. Gonzalez, a dedicated dog owner, had microchipped King Odin with the intention of ensuring his safety, especially during difficult times.
A Heartbreaking Turn of Events
In February 2023, while tending to his ailing father, who was battling cancer, King Odin went missing from the yard where he was being cared for by a friend. Gonzalez promptly reported the situation to Miami-Dade Police, who assured him that if King Odin was captured and brought to a shelter, he would be scanned for a microchip. Despite this assurance, Gonzalez faced challenges due to his limited availability to search for his pet.
“We had to focus on this, which is a terminal ill disease, right now,” said Gonzalez, emphasizing the emotional toll on his family during this period.
Reunion and Revelation
A year later, Gonzalez was surprised to come across an image of King Odin featured on WSVN’s website, showcasing shelter pets available for adoption. Recognizing his beloved dog from unique features, he felt a surge of hope. “That’s my dog! Like, ‘That’s him!’” Gonzalez exclaimed, eager to reconnect with his lost companion.
Faced with Challenges
Upon contacting Miami-Dade Animal Services, Gonzalez provided the necessary details and microchip information to inquire about King Odin’s status. However, his access to information was restricted, requiring him to visit the shelter in person. When he could not go, a volunteer discreetly informed him of the harsh reality: King Odin had been adopted out eight months after going missing and was later returned to the shelter, where he was euthanized.
The Need for Updated Contact Information
Compounding the tragedy, it was revealed that Miami-Dade Animal Services could not reach Gonzalez after he changed his phone number without updating the microchip provider. Although an emergency contact listed had accurate information, they reportedly were not contacted either. “I need to know why there was no email. Why was there no call?” Gonzalez questioned, seeking clarity and accountability.
In response to the situation, Miami-Dade Animal Services emphasized the importance of maintaining updated contact details with chip providers and registering pets properly with the county. The shelter explained, “His dog was not registered with the county. This situation highlights the importance of microchipping, registering, and maintaining your updated contact details.”
Moving Forward
Heartbroken yet determined, Lazaro Gonzalez is now focused on the well-being of his remaining dog, Baddie. He has ensured that she is properly registered with Miami-Dade Animal Control, and he has updated her microchip information to prevent a repeat of the tragic experience he endured with King Odin.
“Her name is Baddie. She is actually registered with Miami-Dade Animal Control, and they are aware of Baddie,” Gonzalez confirmed, taking proactive steps to safeguard his pet.
This heart-wrenching story serves as a poignant reminder for pet owners about the critical importance of not only microchipping their pets but also ensuring that contact information is continually updated to prevent dire outcomes.
