Pet owners scramble to microchip dogs and cats in order to cross border

SAN DIEGO (Border Report) -- As of Aug. 1, dog and cat owners crossing the border must have their animals equipped with "GPS-microchip" devices in order to gain access into the U.S.

But many pet owners say they can't find places to provide this service in Tijuana, according to Orlando Miranda, director of Animal Fest in Baja.

"Social media is bursting right now with people looking for places that provide these chips," Mirande said. "It normally costs anywhere from 200 to 1,000 pesos ($10 - $55), but right now demand is driving prices up."

According to new U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulations announced June 10, recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cats and dogs must be registered in the ISO international database for pets.

CDC's measure was deemed necessary to control the spread of rabies.

It says whether you are a U.S. citizen, legal U.S. resident, or foreign national, the new rules apply to all dogs, including puppies, service animals, and dogs that left the United States and are returning.

But Miranda says many pet owners have yet to familiarize themselves with the new regulations and have found roadblocks at the border.

"I've seen people get sent to secondary inspection just to be told their animals can't come into the United States."

According to Miranda, animal advocates, rescuers and veterinary clinics are trying to get the word out about the microchips for pets.

"It's good some groups are trying to inform the public, but it's also necessary to note that not all chips are permitted by the U.S.," he said. "It's not necessarily the brand but who performs the procedure, that's why pet owners should seek the help of ISO certified veterinarians."