Microchipping your dog or cat improves the likelihood that your pet will be found again if it runs away or is lost. Even if your dog or cat wears a collar, microchips are an important way to identify your pet since collars can break or fall off after a pet is lost.
What is a microchip?
Microchips are about the size of a grain of rice and are encoded with a unique identification number that is detected with a microchip scanner. The microchip is inserted just under the skin with a hypodermic needle, similar to what is used to give a vaccine. Typically, the microchip is placed along the spine between the shoulder blades.
Do I have to do anything after my pet is microchipped?
Yes. It is very important that you register your pet’s microchip after it is placed. The microchip is only encoded with an identification number. It does not contain your pet’s name, your name or your contact information. In order to reunite a missing pet with their owner, the microchip must be registered with the appropriate agency. After your pet is microchipped, our clinic will provide you with the microchip number and the necessary information to register your pet’s microchip. In addition, if you change your address or phone number, you should contact the agency to update your contact information.
What happens if my pet is lost?
If your dog or cat is lost, you should contact your local humane society or shelter, the local police station, and your local veterinarian to report the missing pet. Let them know that your pet is microchipped and provide them with the microchip number. It can also be beneficial to provide a color photograph to aid in identification of your pet. Most shelters and veterinary clinics will have a universal microchip scanner to check any lost pets for a microchip. Once a microchip is identified, it can be traced to the agency that stores owner contact information. Then the lost pet can be returned to their owner.