Microchips 101 for New Pet Owners

Have you recently welcomed an animal companion into your home? Thinking of adopting a new family member soon? Proper identification will be an important step toward your new addition’s health and happiness. Read on as your Aboite, IN vet goes over the basics of microchips.

What’s a Microchip? How Do They Work?

A microchip is a tiny computer chip. A reference number is implanted on it electronically, which corresponds with the chip manufacturer’s database. Your pet’s contact information is stored in that database.

When a lost pet is returned to a veterinarian’s office or animal shelter, scanning devices there can read the microchip’s number. This allows the professionals to return the pet to the rightful owner—that’s you!

Why Get My Pet Microchipped?

Microchips provide your pet with constant identification; unlike ID tags on the collar, which could be ripped away or chewed off, microchips can’t be removed by your pet. This means that even if an unexpected escape occurs, your pet is identified no matter what! Microchips also keep your information secure rather than displaying it openly for anyone to find.

Another benefit of microchips is that they’re a great investment. If you move or get a new telephone number, you don’t have to purchase another chip—simply contact the manufacturer, and your information can be updated without even having to leave home!

Can I Track My Pet Using a Microchip?

No, microchips will not allow you to track your pet’s movements in real time. That would require GPS technology, which is not included in identification microchips at this time. Other GPS-enabled devices on the market do offer this capability, though!

What’s the Procedure Like?

The microchip itself is housed inside a small glass capsule; the whole unit is about the size of a large grain of rice. The capsule is then inserted under your pet’s skin using a specialized syringe. The procedure only takes a moment, and all your pet will feel is a momentary pinch; it’s almost like a regular vaccination!

The microchipping procedure presents virtually no risk to your pet. There is a possibility of minor swelling or irritation at the injection site, but this will almost always resolve on its own.

How Do I Get My Pet Microchipped?

Do you have more questions about pet identification? Ready to get your pet set up with a microchip? Make an appointment at your Aboite, IN animal hospital.