First-of-its-kind microchip scanning stations for lost pets installed in Anchorage

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) - David Jensen says if he can help reunite one lost dog with its owner, his pet project 907chip will have been worth it.

For months, Jensen — an Anchorage photographer and animal lover — has been raising funds to install microchip scanning stations in public places around town.

The scanners allow people to see if a stray animal is chipped, then contact the chip company, which in turn will let the owner know their pet has been found.

The scanning service is offered by most vet clinics, but Anchorage veterinarian Emily Mehlman said the stations have the advantage of being available to the public 24/7, and they can keep dogs out of the shelter.

“It just makes it easier for everyone involved and a nicer experience for the pets,” Mehlman said. “And of course, they are less stressed if they don’t have to go to the shelter.”

On Friday, Jensen installed the first scanning station outside Anchorage Veterinary Clinic and Urgent Care off 88th Street. He planned to install two more by the end of the day; one outside Alyeska Canine Trainers in midtown and another in front of the Ulu Factory by Ship Creek downtown.

He said another station will go outside the Girdwood Fire Department in about two weeks.

Jensen said he’s raised about $3,500 so far, enough to fund seven scanning stations, but he said it’s likely he’ll continue fundraising for more.

“As soon I said I was going to do this and create 907chip, I started getting calls from people from the Valley, from Eagle River, from Girdwood, from Fairbanks, Chugiak, so there seems to be a good demand,” Jensen said, adding he’s gotten lots of support from both businesses and individuals for the project.

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