Pet Microchipping

A pet microchip is a small electronic device that gets implanted under the skin of your pet. This electronic device contains a unique identification number that provides critical information to animal rescue. This number is registered with a pet microchip database, along with your contact information, ensuring that if your pet goes missing, a simple scan can bring them back to you.

There are a number of reasons why you should microchip your pet. First, unlike a collar or tag, a microchip offers a permanent form of identification that cannot be lost or removed. Second, a microchip increases the likelihood that you and your pet will be reunited if lost or stolen. It gives animal shelters, doctors, and rescue groups a quick and reliable way to recognize your pet and contact you as the owner. Last, microchipping is mandated by law in some places, especially for certain dog breeds or for animals crossing state or international borders.

An animal shelter or veterinarian can check the microchip in your pet using a handheld scanner. If a pet microchip is found, the owner's contact information can be found by searching a database of pet microchips using the unique identification number.

Many veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and animal rescue groups and shelters provide microchipping services. It's crucial to have a trained, certified professional perform the procedure to ensure it's done safely and accurately.

The microchipping procedure is typically regarded as painless and secure. A specialized needle is used to inject the microchip, which is about the size of a grain of rice, under the pet's skin, usually between the shoulder blades. The procedure is similar to getting a routine shot or vaccination, and most pets only experience a moment of discomfort.

The majority of animals don't experience any negative side effects from the microchipping procedure, but some can have brief soreness or tenderness where the injection was made. Usually, these symptoms go away within a few days.

No, surgery or anesthesia is not necessary for pet microchipping. A specialized needle is used to implant the microchip beneath the pet's skin. The process is quick and easy and generally causes the animal little discomfort.

The microchips presently used in pets only contain identification numbers. The microchip is not a GPS device and cannot track your animal if it gets lost.

No, the pet microchip is not a tracking device. It only contains the unique identification number which is linked to the owner's contact information in the pet microchip database. It's important to keep all of your contact information relevant so that your pet can be reunited with you if they ever get lost. A microchip is not a substitute for proper supervision. It should not be relied on as the only way to keep your pet safe.

Pet microchips might seem small, but they offer a lifetime of protection for your beloved pet. Made from safe, biocompatible materials, these microchips are built to last for the duration of your pet's life. Most manufacturers offer a lifetime warranty.

Although it is extremely unlikely for a pet's microchip to fall out, it is possible for it to move or migrate slightly from its original location. Microchips are typically injected with a syringe under the skin, and once implanted, they are made to be stable and secure. Additionally, the microchip usually grows around the implant site's tissues, which keeps it in place.

It's important to keep in mind that although microchips rarely fall out, it is still possible. It's a good idea to ask your vet to scan for your pet's microchip right away if you think it may have moved or fallen out.

After microchipping a dog or cat, you can expect the following:

Checking for Proper Placement: To ensure the microchip is in the right place and operating correctly, it's crucial to have your veterinarian check the placement of the device right away after the procedure. Your veterinarian will test the microchip's functionality and ability to be detected with a scanner.

Mild Pain: The procedure is quick and easy and usually only causes mild pain, similar to when getting a shot. When the microchip is implanted, your pet might feel slightly pinching, but it shouldn't hurt them for long.

Some Swelling: For a few days after the procedure, your pet may experience swelling or tenderness at the implant site. This is usually mild and should subside on its own.

Updating the Microchip Registry: To make sure that your pet's identification information is current and can be accessed if your pet gets lost, you must register your pet's microchip with a national registry.

Peace of Mind: Microchipping your pet can provide peace of mind knowing that your pet has a permanent form of identification that cannot be lost or removed. A microchip can help you quickly and easily find your pet if it gets lost.

A microchip doesn't necessarily need to be maintained, but there are a few things you can do to make sure it keeps functioning correctly in your pet:

Keep Your Contact Information Up-to-Date: If your pet gets lost, it's critical to keep your contact information current with the microchip registry to reach you quickly. Update your contact information with the microchip registry as soon as possible if you move or change your phone number.

Have the Microchip Checked During Vet Visits: When you take your pet to the vet for a regular check-up, ask your vet to check the microchip to ensure it's still in place and working correctly.

Watch for Signs of Infection: While rare, it's possible for an infection to occur at the site of the microchip implantation. Watch for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge, and contact your veterinarian if you notice any of these symptoms.

By taking these actions, you can help make sure that your pet's microchip is still functional and that your contact information is current, which can improve the likelihood of a quick reunion if your pet ever gets lost.