Why You Should Microchip Your Pet
Did you know that June is National Microchipping Month? Have you wondered what it means to microchip your pet? In this blog we’ll break down what microchipping is and how it can protect your pet!
What are Microchips in Pets?
“Microchips are implantable computer chips that encode a unique identification number to help reunite you with your lost pet. They are no bigger than a grain of rice and they are placed under your pet’s skin with a needle and syringe, not much differently than a routine vaccine. Unlike collars and ID tags, they can never break or fall-off. They work by receiving a radio signal from a scanner and transmitting the encoded chip identification number back to the scanner. With the chip identification number in hand, the vital contact information is only a phone call away. (1)”
What is the procedure like?
“Implanting the small microchip under your pet’s shoulder blade is a quick, minimally-invasive process that’s no more painful than an injection. Your vet can implant a microchip during any routine visit. If you’re still concerned about undue stress, they can even microchip your pet while they’re under anesthesia for a spaying or neutering procedure. (2)”
How does microchipping protect your pet?
“Pets don’t just get lost. Lots of them get stolen too. The American Kennel Club (AKC) suggests that petnapping is a growing issue with more than 2 million dogs getting stolen each year.
A microchip makes it significantly more challenging for a thief to get away with such a scheme. While chips don’t include GPS tracking devices, it’s standard procedure for vets to scan a new dog or cat to check for a chip. In doing so, they’ll discover the crime and, soon, you and your pet will be reunited. (2)”
The importance of microchipping
“The undeniable fact remains that microchips have reunited hundreds of pets with their guardians. Of course, in order for a microchip to work, you will need to register the microchip and keep your contact information up-to-date. Microchips are reliable and use nationwide registries, but they ultimately depend on the information that you give. So remember to update your information and provide multiple emergency contacts in case your pet gets lost while you are out of town.(1)”
Keeping your microchip up to date
Make sure your pet’s microchip is registered in the manufacturer’s database.
Ask your vet to scan your pet’s microchip during each visit to ensure it’s still functioning.
Update your contact information in the manufacturer’s database whenever necessary.
Remember, too, that you shouldn’t consider a microchip a substitute for a traditional ID tag. A collar and tag with accurate contact information is still the quickest and simplest way to help a lost pet find their way home. (2)
