AUSTIN, Texas — The city of Austin is considering a pet ordinance that would require pet owners to get their pets microchipped.
Council Member Jose "Chito" Vela said the city council will consider a new microchip ordinance at a meeting next week.
"It is a brand new ordinance that we will be passing next Thursday,” said Vela.
Vela said there are two main reasons why the city is doing it. The first is to reunite pets with their owners, but also to create additional space at the Austin Animal Center, which has been at capacity for months.
"It’s a mandatory program, but there is no fine there is no penalty," Vela said. "[We] need to do everything to create room at the shelter."
Austin resident Andreas Breffitt said his dog is microchipped and likes the city's idea.
“For me to get her out of the shelter she has to get microchipped," Breffitt said. "So she also has an Air Tag, which kind of helps too before if anyone tries to steal her. At least I know I can find her."
The Austin Animal Center does offer free microchips for Austin and Travis County residents.