As a responsible pet owner, you’ve likely heard about the importance of microchipping your furry friend. But what exactly is microchipping, and why is it so crucial? Our Family Veterinary Care of Oakdale team dives into the world of pet microchipping, exploring its benefits, how it works, and what the process entails. Whether you’re a seasoned pet owner or a new pet parent, this guide provides all the information you need to make an informed decision about microchipping your pet.

What is microchipping in pets?

Microchipping is a simple and effective method that ensures your pet can be easily identified should they get lost. A microchip is a tiny device, about the size of a grain of rice, that is implanted under your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. Each microchip contains a unique identification number that can be read by a special scanner. This number is linked to your contact information in a pet recovery database.

Why is microchipping your pet important?

Pet microchips provide a host of benefits, including:

  • Permanent identification — Unlike your pet’s collars and tags, which can become worn, fall off, or be removed, a microchip is a permanent identification form. The chip increases the chances of being reunited with your lost pet.
  • Quick recovery — According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), microchipped pets are significantly more likely to be returned to their owners. In fact, microchipped dogs are returned home 52.2% of the time compared with 21.9% without microchips. For cats, the return rate jumps from 1.8% to 38.5% with microchips.
  • Proof of ownership — A microchip can serve as proof of ownership in dispute cases or if your pet is stolen.

How does microchipping pets work?

The microchipping process is quick and relatively painless. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Implantation — The microchip is inserted under your pet’s skin using a needle. The process is similar to a vaccination and usually takes only a few seconds.
  • Registration — Once the microchip is implanted, you need to register it with your contact information in a pet recovery database. You must update the information if you move or change phone numbers. 
  • Scanning — If your pet is found and taken to a veterinary hospital or animal shelter, they will be scanned for a microchip. The scanner reads the unique ID number, and the staff will contact the microchip company to get your contact information and notify you.

What are common misconceptions about microchipping pets?

People may not microchip their pets because they believe the many misconceptions, which include:

  • Microchips act as GPS trackers — A common misconception is that microchips can track your pet’s location. In reality, microchips do not have GPS capabilities, and scanning only identifies them.
  • Microchipping is painful — The implantation process is quick and causes minimal discomfort. Most pets experience no more pain than when they receive a routine vaccination.
  • Microchips need replacing — Microchips are made of biocompatible materials designed to last a lifetime, so they do not need replacing. They have no moving parts, do not need batteries, and provide lifelong identification.

What are the benefits of microchipping pets?

Microchipping your pet offers a host of benefits, including:

  • Increased peace of mind — Knowing your pet is permanently identified provides peace of mind, especially if they tend to roam or have a history of escaping.
  • Compliance with local laws — In some areas, microchipping is required by law for certain pets, so microchipping your pet keeps you compliant with local regulations.
  • Easier travel — If you travel frequently with your pet, especially internationally, microchipping may be required. Many countries have strict regulations about pet identification.

Microchipping is a simple, affordable, and highly effective way to protect your pet. With its minimal discomfort and a lifetime of benefits, microchipping is a responsible pet owner’s smart choice for their pet. Give our Family Veterinary Care of Oakdale team a call to set up your furry friend’s microchipping appointment.