PROGRAM BACKED TO PUT CHIPS IN SHELTER ANIMALS.

Byline: Patrick McGreevy Daily News Staff Writer

The Los Angeles City Council approved a program Wednesday to install microchips in the necks of all dogs and cats adopted from city animal shelters so that if they are later picked up as strays, they can be easily identified with an electronic scanner.

The two-year test program will increase the cost to the public of adopting dogs from $74 to $89 and cats from $50 to $65 to cover the city's expense, according to Sharon Morris, acting general manager of the city's Animal Regulation Department.

``We do hope to increase the redemptions of pets to their owners and to cut down on euthanasia and the heartbreak of somebody coming to pick up their pet and find it already adopted to somebody else,'' Morris said.

The council approved the program even though some council members were concerned that the higher cost to the public might discourage people from adopting animals.

``Even at $74 I can't believe anybody goes to the pound,'' said Councilwoman Ruth Galanter.

However, the city adoption fees still will be lower than the cost of buying animals from many pet stores and humane organizations, according to Councilman Richard Alarcon.