Are Unchipped Pets Illegal In Texas? El Paso?

Peeps in Texas are very fond of their pets, especially their dogs. Is having a pet that does not have a microchip implanted legal in Texas? How about El Paso?

The best reason to have your pet "chipped" is that once your furry friend has one, the odds of them being found if they get lost go way, way up.

You really should do it and almost all pets adopted from animal shelters will get one. Does Texas, (or El Paso, Texas in particular), actually mandate chipping? Kinda.

The lone star state, across the board, does not legally require that pets be chipped. Certain cities in Texas do require them though, Austin being the latest to enact a "chip" law.

According to KXAN, other Texas cities that require a chip for Rover include El Paso as well as San Antonio, Dallas, Houston, Fort Worth and Waco. With regard to El Paso:

Registration, Vaccination, and Microchipping: Dogs, cats, and ferrets are required to be registered, vaccinated, and equipped with an implanted microchip. Rabies vaccines are mandatory, administered exclusively by a licensed U.S. veterinarian. - ktsm

In El Paso, (at least in 2015), not micro chipping your pet could get you a $75.00 fine. If your pet has a chip, it's important to remember to keep it updated. If you move, change phone numbers or do anything that leaves the chip info incomplete or incorrect, you should update it asap.

Your pet should also wear a collar with your name and number on it. In the event a neighbor finds your pet, they won't have the equipment to scan the chip but will be able to read your info on the tag. This could greatly speed up your reunion.