“A simple microchip scan was all it took to reconnect Leo with his original family.”
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Because it’s nearly Christmas, and a time when families are often reunited with their loved ones, I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to share the bittersweet story of one of my patients: Leo the very lucky stray cat.
Meet Leo, the Very Lucky Stray Cat
So why is Leo so lucky?
Well, when a stranger called Sue noticed Leo living in the surroundings of her apartment block she thought he was a stray.
So for the past 2 years or so she’s been very kindly looking after Leo, making sure he was okay, fed and watered.
But that’s not the only reason why Leo is a very lucky stray cat.
Sue called me out last month to check on Leo because she was concerned he wasn’t looking his usual glossy self, and so we did the consultation on the outdoor steps with Leo in her arms.
Because Leo was a stray, I decided to scan him while I was there to see if I could find a microchip.
And within just a few minutes, I had Leo’s original owner on the phone.
So How Had Leo Became Separated from His Family?
A couple of years ago Leo’s family had moved from near this block of apartments to a new home, but because cats can be very territorial, Leo kept running back to where he had originally lived.
Leo’s family had managed to find him and bring him home several times, however the last time he’d escaped they couldn’t locate him and Leo just didn’t come back.
But because Leo’s family had kept his microchip details up-to-date when they moved, I was able to contact his family as soon as I’d scanned Leo. And they were so relieved to know that Leo had been finally located and was alive and well.
A Bittersweet Reunion
Sadly for Leo’s original family, they were just about to move overseas when I contacted them and so they couldn’t take Leo with them at this stage. But they wanted to see Leo again before they left, and so they came around to meet Sue and Leo for both a reunion and farewell.
They were so grateful for the chance to see Leo again, as well as to meet and thank such a dedicated and lovely person as Sue, who had cared for Leo for all of these years.
By calling me out for a consultation, Sue had also given Leo’s family the reassurance of knowing their beloved pet was still alive, as well as giving them the chance to say goodbye to him before they moved overseas.
And so even though Leo’s story is bittersweet, at least there was a resolution thanks to the updated microchip.
Can You Guess Who’s Now Become Leo’s New Owner?
The photo below is of Leo and his new mum, Sue. Now that Leo’s original family are unable to take him overseas, Sue has officially become Leo’s new owner, and Leo couldn’t be happier.
Leo is indeed a very lucky stray cat, not only because he was fortunate enough to be cared for by someone as kind as Sue…
…but because his original owners had updated his microchip details. So they were able to leave for overseas in the knowledge that Leo was alive and well, and happily living with his new owner Sue.
“Keeping your pet’s details up to date can make the difference between uncertainty and a clear outcome.”
Sadly, not all stray pets end up as lucky as Leo
If you’re not sure whether your pet’s microchip has been updated, contact your mobile vet and we can scan your pet for you next time you visit.
There are so many microchips that aren’t updated when people move so please ensure you do this as a priority, because your loved ones deserve a happy ending to their story too.
Key Takeaways
- Up-to-date microchip details are critical for lost pets
Accurate registration information allows pets to be quickly identified and reunited with their owners. - Microchip scanning is a simple but essential check
A quick scan during a consultation can confirm ownership and provide clarity in uncertain situations. - Pets can return to familiar areas after moving
Cats in particular may travel back to previous homes, increasing the risk of becoming lost. - Early identification can change outcomes significantly
In Leo’s case, updated details allowed contact with his original family and ensured a clear path forward.
In-Home Services
In-home care forms the foundation of how we treat and manage your pet’s health. Most conditions can be assessed, treated, and monitored in a familiar environment where pets are calmer and easier to handle. Available to residents of Sydney’s inner city, Inner West, Eastern Suburbs and the Lower North Shore.
Testimonials
Debby Ross
First visit from Ari and Ellie and it went beyond all expectations. They were so genuinely interested in my two cats. Of course I couldn’t stop talking about them but they clearly were not bored. Did excellent health checks and vaccinations – was an absolute pleasure and I would totally recommend them to anybody. So fabulous having no stress of lugging…
Daniel Birchall
Elle’s exceptionally professional, warm, and helpful phone manner, together with Dr Ari’s prompt arrival, gentle approach with Hudson, and clear, thorough medical explanations and recommendations, immediately put my mind at ease. The high level of care and professionalism demonstrated confirmed that contacting VETaround was the right decision.
Amanda Yeates
Ari is the best vet ever. His home visits are incredible. Such a great service to not have to put your beloved pets in the stressful situation of a car. Or around sick pets in a waiting area. My cats LOVE HIM. Ollie my male cat NEVER comes out of hiding when visitors come over. With Ari, he not only came out, let him weigh him, have his check up done…
Charmaine Caffrey
I was very pleased with the ladies from VETaround Mobile vet. Professional, polite and very knowledgeable. Certainly eased my mind about my cat 🐈 would recommend them to anyone needing good veterinary care for their pet. We all know just how important our four legged friends are!
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a microchip help reunite lost pets with owners?
A microchip contains a unique identification number linked to your contact details. When scanned, it allows a vet to access ownership information and contact you directly. This can significantly reduce the time it takes to locate a pet’s family.
What happens if my pet’s microchip details are outdated?
If your contact details are outdated, it can be difficult or impossible to reach you. Even if your pet is found and scanned, outdated information may delay or prevent reunion. Keeping details up to date ensures the system works as intended.
Can a mobile vet check my pet’s microchip at home?
A mobile vet can scan your pet’s microchip during a home consultation. This allows you to confirm that the chip is working and that your details are correctly registered. It can be done quickly during a routine visit.
Why do cats sometimes go missing after moving house?
Cats are territorial and may return to areas they previously lived in. This behaviour can lead them away from their new home, especially if they are allowed outside. Identification becomes important in these situations.
How often should I check my pet’s microchip details?
It’s important to review your pet’s details whenever your contact information changes. Moves, new phone numbers or email changes should all be updated promptly. Regular checks help ensure your information remains accurate.
Is microchipping enough to keep my pet safe?
Microchipping is a key part of identification, but it relies on accurate registration details. Physical identification, like collars, can also help, but microchips provide a permanent backup. Together, they improve the chances of your pet being returned safely.