Impact of mandatory microchipping on traceability of sheltered dogs in the Czech Republic.

Records of 4,455 sheltered dogs were analyzed to compare the numbers of traceable (able to be reunited with original caregivers) and untraceable (unable to be reunited with original caregivers) dogs before (Period 1) and after (Period 2) introduction of a mandatory microchipping. Records were also used to compare the numbers of microchipped dogs, to compare dogs' reunification with caregivers, and to estimate possible financial savings. In Period 1, 51.8% of the dogs were untraceable (median length of stay = 14 days) and 48.2% were traceable (median length of stay = 1 day). Of all traceable dogs, 24.5% were microchipped, and 67.5% of microchipped dogs were traceable. In Period 2, 57.1% of dogs were traceable (median length of stay = 0 days), and 42.9% were untraceable (median length of stay = 12 days). Of all traceable dogs, 61.4% had a microchip, and 80% of microchipped dogs were traceable. In Period 2, authorities saved more than US$43,400 on unreclaimed dog care. Mandatory microchipping of dogs appears to be an effective measure to increase reunification of sheltered dogs, decrease length of stay, and save authority funds.