Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use the microchip scanning station?

The station includes simple, step-by-step on-site instructions to guide you through safely scanning a found pet for a microchip and what to do next.
You don’t need any special training - just follow the posted directions, move slowly, and keep the pet as calm as possible.

Is the station available all the time?

Yes.
The microchip scanning station is available 24 hours a day so found pets can be checked for identification even when veterinary clinics and shelters are closed.

What happens if a microchip is found?

The instructions at the station explain how to:

• Record the microchip number

• Enter it into the microchip registry provided

• Begin reaching the pet’s family

Many reunions happen quickly once the chip number is located.

What if no microchip is found?

If a chip isn’t detected, the station guidance will walk you through the next safest steps, including contacting local resources that can continue helping the pet get home.

Do I need to bring anything with me?

No.
Everything needed to scan for a microchip and follow the next steps on your phone is provided at the station.

Is it safe to scan any pet?

The scanner is non-invasive and painless.
However, always approach found pets slowly and carefully.
If a pet seems fearful, injured, or unsafe to handle, contacting local animal professionals is the best next step.

About the Community Resource

Why was this station created?

Lost pets are incredibly stressful for families - and pets.
The faster a pet can be identified, the faster they can return home.

This station was created to give the community a simple, anytime tool to help make reunions happen sooner - especially after hours.

Why is the station located at a Blue Skies Pet Care property?

The station is hosted at one of our dog boarding bed-and-breakfast locations because it’s already a regularly maintained space.

That allows us to keep the station stocked, protected from weather, and ready whenever it’s needed.

How does this help the wider community?

This small resource can make a meaningful difference by:

• Helping pets get identified faster

• Reducing stress for families

• Allowing found pets to stay closer to home

• Easing pressure on veterinary clinics and shelters

What is your hope for this station long-term?

Our hope is simple:
More lost pets getting home faster.

If this station quietly helps even a few families reunite with their pets, then it has already done something important.

Could other towns create something like this?

Yes.
Microchip scanning stations are actually simple to assemble.
The most important piece is a local partner willing to host and maintain it so the community can rely on it being ready at all times.

We would love to see more communities offer similar resources for lost pets. Interested hosts, please feel free to reach out.

Do you offer any other community pet resources?

Yes. Supporting pets and families in Newton, Hesston, and Wichita area extends far beyond our daily services.

Our community outreach has included helping lead the creation of the Newton Dog Park, hosting the annual Pawsiving / Wishbones for Pets charity drive, partnering with the Wichita Animal Action League to provide free Basic Manners training through the Pets for Life program, collaborating with local shelters and veterinary clinics on behavior education, sponsoring pet oxygen masks for local fire departments, and supporting pet-focused community groups and events.

We also maintain simple neighborhood resources - like a public pet waste station at another property on 12th Street in Newton. It may be less exciting than a microchip scanner, but it’s still a meaningful way to keep shared spaces clean, safe, and welcoming for pets and neighbors.