Microchipping: Columbus vs Indianapolis
How do microchipping rules compare between Columbus, OH and Indianapolis, IN?
Columbus has fewer restrictions than Indianapolis.
Columbus, OH
Franklin County
Columbus does not require all owned pets to be microchipped, but every dog and cat adopted through Columbus Animal Care & Control or Capital Area Humane Society is microchipped before going home, and owners are urged to keep registration current.
View full Columbus rules →Indianapolis, IN
Marion County
Indianapolis Animal Care Services microchips every dog and cat that passes through its custody and recommends microchipping for licensed pets, with state law backing chip-based rabies and ownership tracking.
View full Indianapolis rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Columbus | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Mandatory? | No | - |
| At adoption | Always chipped | - |
| Scanning | On every CMACC intake | - |
| State link | ORC §955.011 | - |
| Cost | Included in fee | Low-cost clinic available |
| ACS chips | - | All shelter animals |
| State backup | - | IC 15-17-6 vaccination |
| Field return | - | Faster reunification |
| Owner duty | - | Keep registry current |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Columbus FAQ
Is microchipping my dog required in Columbus?
No, but it is strongly recommended and is provided automatically when you adopt from CMACC or Columbus Humane. Keep your contact info current with the chip registry.
What if I find a lost pet in Columbus?
Bring it to CMACC or any vet to scan for a microchip; chipped pets are reunited with owners far faster than tag-only animals before stray-hold timers expire.
Indianapolis FAQ
Is microchipping required by law in Indianapolis?
It is not strictly mandatory citywide, but it is automatic for any pet adopted, sterilized, or impounded by Animal Care Services and strongly encouraged for licensed pets.
How do I update a chip after I move?
Log into the chip manufacturer's portal (for example HomeAgain) and edit the address and phone; ACS can scan and read the chip but does not maintain the registry.
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