SAN DIEGO -- If your dog or cat doesn't have a microchip, the county animal shelters are providing a new, inexpensive way to get one.

It was made apparent with Hurricane Katrina and the firestorm of 2003 that pets can easily get separated from their owners during a disaster.

A microchip can be a permanent means of identifying your pet.

Starting Thursday, all three county shelters will offer microchips for a low fee of just $20.

Microchipping will take place at the shelters every Thursday afternoon between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.