Aiken SPCA’s new 24/7 microchip station helps lost pets get home

AIKEN, S.C. (WJBF) — A new addition outside Aiken’s SPCA Albrecht Center is helping families reunite with their lost pets — any time of day or night.

The SPCA’s new 24/7 microchip station is already making a difference.

“Our first idea and the initial purpose of the project was to build the microchipping station,” SPCA Albrecht Center Jade Garrett said. “We have strays and lost pets come in on a daily basis. Last week, we took in over 30 animals.”

Some animals come in with microchips. Others don’t. Without one, lost pets rarely find their way home — maybe just 10% of them.

“Anyone who finds a lost or stray pet can scan it and use the posted instructions to contact the microchipping company and reach the owner,” she shared.

This simple step connects pets to their owners fast — even after hours.

“On a monthly basis, we get anywhere from 100 to 150 animals.”

While the station solves a real problem, another project keeps pets from ending up here — a 24-hour food pantry.

“A lot of people will give back their pets or give away their pets to the shelter, if they don’t have the means to take care of it.”

The community has already stepped up — stocking the food pantry and supporting the new station.

“I’ve noticed there’s more food in the Blessing Box than what we initially put in there. Not only do we have the community’s support, it’s a solution for so many people in need.”