How to create a 907Chip Microchip Reading Station in Alaska

These instructions are in-progress. Updates as time permits.

Secure a location - find a business partner.

The station should have good public access/visibility and one that is dog/cat compatible. Permission from the building owner will be required.

While dog parks and other high-volume properties would be ideal, there are greater risks of theft and vandalism. You also have more red-tape to cut through while obtaining permission from public property administrators.

Will your station be attached to a pre-existing structure or free-standing?

There are two styles of microchip reader stations.

The simplest microchip station is one that attaches to a pre-existing structure such as a fence or building wall. This style is also more cost-effective. Before selecting this approach, obtain permission of the building owner. Then, you will want to determine how to attach the instructional sign, chip reader and weather-proof box. Some buildings are wood framed. Others have cement walls behind the fascia. A carpenter can help figure out the best way to properly attach the components. The business owner or a volunteer should check the location regularly to make sure the scanner is in good order and that it has working batteries.
The most ideal station setup is to create a stand-alone microchip reading station. This allows some portability and less worry about impacting a business’s exterior wall. The instructions below provide step-by-step instructions. It’s a bit more effort but has many advantages.

Signage.

The 907Chip station can be used as a good example for good messaging. In fact, it was modeled after a program in North Carolina that is hosted by Paws4Purpose (lots of good information on their Facebook page. The signs provide instructions for how to use the scanning device as well as what to do/who to contact if a microchip cannot be located. Also, it’s a great tool to recognize donors, volunteers and sponsors. In fact, each station in Anchorage goes one more step by dedicating the station itself to a specific dog or business.

How will you fund your microchip reader station?

In Alaska, reader stations can be assembled at a cost of about $400-550 each. Wall mounted stations require fewer materials (lumber, cement, paint, small hardware.). You can host fund raisers or ask for sponsors.

Important: Prices and market costs vary. This information is provided based on when this instruction guide was written (April, 2025.). You may be able to save money as you crate your own process. These prices are about $150 more than the cost to assemble similar stations in the Lower 48.