Microchip Scanner Pilot Program – Community Supplement
What Are Microchip Scanners?
Handheld, battery-powered devices that detect a pet’s implanted microchip.
When a pet is scanned, the scanner displays the chip’s ID number.
That number is then entered into a national registry database, which provides the owner’s contact information.
Libraries, fire stations, and other trusted community locations become first-stop places to help reunite pets with their families.
Why This Matters for Riverside
Faster Reunification: Lost pets can be returned to their families quickly, often avoiding a stressful shelter intake.
Reduced Shelter Costs: Every pet reunited directly saves taxpayer dollars and reduces shelter overcrowding.
Community Access: Libraries and fire stations are safe, trusted, and accessible locations for residents.
Public Safety & Wellbeing: Pets are family — reducing the number of stray animals benefits both residents and neighborhoods.
Program Details
14 scanners total – two per ward.
Locations: Riverside Public Libraries and Fire Stations.
Cost: 50/50 shared between City of Riverside and Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center (MSRPAC).
Replacement Units: The City and MSRPAC will provide up to 3 replacements during the pilot year.
Timeline: Installation by April 30, 2026, in honor of National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day.
Pilot Duration: 1 year, with the option to extend.
Proven Impact
In other communities, scanner access has:
Increased on-the-spot reunifications.
Decreased shelter intake, saving resources.
Engaged community members in supporting local animal welfare.
Example video of a successful program: https://youtu.be/qMLEIZ9LU3Q?si=hgLVcpdfatnzW7eK Partners in This Effort
This program is a collaboration between:
City of Riverside – site host, cost-sharing partner, and co-lead for community awareness.
Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center – procurement lead, cost-sharing partner, and co-lead for education/marketing.
Examples & Market Prices
These are from established vendors; good quality, reliable, support for standards (ISO/FDX etc.). Prices fluctuate.
Model
Approx. Price*
Key Features
Notes on Use & Security
Datamars Compact Max Plus (with Bluetooth)
~$279 Pet Travel Store
Reads ISO/FDX-B, FDX-A, etc.; built-in memory ~4,000 tags; rechargeable battery; color display; Bluetooth/USB. Pet Travel Store Mid-high quality. For public use, could be secured in wall mount or locked cabinet; add tether or security cable; standard warranty.
Scanfindr Xtend Max
~$695 ACES
“Stick” scanner; large antenna; one-button scanning; made for shelters or animal control; universal chip reading. ACES Expensive but rugged; ideal if one unit will see heavy use. Cover with secured mount.
Global Pocket Reader Plus (GPR+)
~$432.89 Valley Vet Supply
Reads multiple standards; stores up to 3,000 microchip numbers; USB/Bluetooth connectivity. Valley Vet Supply Portable but more expensive. With public placement, use locking storage when not in use; maybe an alarmed cabinet or tethered.
HomeAgain Universal Worldscan Plus
~$385.95 Pet Travel Store
Universal scanner with memory and Bluetooth; good reputation. Pet Travel Store Higher cost but good capability.
*Prices are what I saw recently; subject to change.
Securing Scanners in Public Locations
Because the scanners are small/portable, there is risk of theft or damage. Here are options to secure them:
Security cable/tether: Strong steel cable that allows the scanner to be handled but not removed. For example key-lock box with coiled cable.
Wall-mounted enclosure: A lockable box or cabinet where the scanner is mounted (still usable through a slot or glass; or pulled out by a tether).
Drawer with lock & check-out policy: At a staffed location (library desk or fire station staff), the scanner is kept in a locked drawer, checked out when needed.
Alarmed security case: If frequent unauthorized removal is a concern.
Also, pick units with robust housings (durable plastic or even reinforced cases), rechargeable batteries (avoid frequent battery swaps), and memory so they store recent scans.
Suggested Cost Budget per Unit for Public Deployment
Here’s an estimated cost per scanner when you factor in purchase + security mounting + some accessories:
Component
Estimated Cost (USD)
Scanner (mid-quality universal)
$250-$350
Locking bracket or enclosure / security tether
$30-$75
Protective case / weatherproofing (if outdoors or semi-outdoors) $20-$50
Signage / instructions for public use
$10-$25
Maintenance / replacement components (battery, etc.)
$20-$50 annually
So, budget ~ $330-$550 per fully secured, public-usable unit if you want good quality and durability. 2