MAY 15TH EVENING "MICROCHIP CLINIC" WITH CHRISTINE PAPPAS, DVM TO ENABLE MORE REUNIONS OF LOST DOGS WITH THEIR OWNERS

Event at "Dogs in Suds" in Chesterland featured quick, reduced-cost microchip insertions, and also introduced the dog grooming business' expanded retail section

A portion of the proceeds benefited the Geauga County Dog Shelter

A "Microchip Clinic" with West Geauga Veterinary Hospital owner Christine Pappas, DVM was held May 15, 2007.

The event also introduced the dog grooming establishment's newly expanded retail section that offers safe and tasty organic dog biscuits, toys, and other "doggie items."

Dr. Pappas inserted an AVID I.D. Systems microchip - about the size of a grain of rice - between each dog's shoulder blades for the reduced cost of $25. A portion of the proceeds benefited the Geauga County Dog Shelter.

Dr. Pappas noted that the insertion feels like a pin prick, which is a sensation similar to getting a vaccination shot. She said that filling out the registration paperwork will actually take slightly longer for the owners than it will take her to insert the microchips into their dogs.

The May 15th clinic was limited to dogs, but the microchip can also be inserted into other pets (cats, birds, etc.). If a pet gets lost, many animal shelters and law enforcement offices can access the contact information of the pet's owner and/or veterinarian by scanning the microchip.

Dr. Pappas revealed, "On average, one out of every three pets gets lost during some time in his or her lifetime, and I'm always interested in reuniting pets with their owners. The microchips have been available since 1985, but we have to get the word out about it to more Ohioans. I agree with the AVID company's message that 'one injection is a lifetime of protection.'"

The West Geauga Veterinary Hospital, located at 12498 Chillicothe Rd, is a full-service facility (accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association) treating dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, pocket pets and exotics. Dr. Pappas and Dr. Paul Ramsey can be contacted for veterinary internal medicine, laser surgery, dental care, radiology, lab work, boarding, bathing, or emergency or routine care by calling 440-729-9584 or visiting www.westgeaugavet.com.

Dogs in Suds is a full-service dog grooming center which offers both professional grooming by appointment as well as do-it-yourself (DIY) grooming. No appointments are necessary to use the DIY stations, which are kept clean and well-equipped with all necessary supplies. The professional staff groomers are also available to answer grooming questions from both their clients and those who utilize the DIY stations.

For more information about the services or retail products at Dogs in Suds, or the May 15th Microchip Clinic, call 440-729-1211 or visit www.dogsinsudsllc.com.