[ElaineMonster]

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How about a "just found" registry of microchips for lost pets to let owners check the web to see where their pet is? Could have a link to tie-in to yahoo maps or whatever for the shelter, maybe, if you wanted to go to that trouble or could afford what you might have to pay. Look like a hero while doing it.

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This is a good idea, but a HUGE undertaking. There are at least 3 or 4 different microchips and even more different registries. Not even all chips are inserted in the shoulder area, some vets put them elsewhere. Many shelters do their own registry in addition. And the current registries probably wouldn't give you the info for free if at all.

And what about the other methods of ID like tatoos and collar tags? Most people don't even chip their pets yet, so the service wouldn't be that useful for most people and their animals.

Also, microchip registries (whoever you filled out your paperwork and paid your fee to when you got your animal chipped) are supposed to call you when your animal is found. Vets and shelters are supposed to scan all animals, living or dead (but not every county requires it). So, all you need to do is keep your phone number up to date with the registry and you don't need a web based database.

But the larger problem is that there isn't a nationwide database for all found animals regardless of chips.