Microchipping Your Pet

As a pet owner, keeping your beloved furry companion safe is always a top priority. While collar tags with your contact information are a common form of identification, they can easily fall off or become unreadable. This is where microchipping comes in. Microchipping is a permanent form of identification that can greatly increase the chances of your pet being reunited with you if they were to become lost. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of microchipping your pet and the process of getting it done.

What is Microchipping?

Microchipping is a procedure in which a tiny microchip, about the size of a grain of rice, is inserted under the skin of your pet. This microchip contains a unique identification number that is linked to your contact information in a national pet registry. This information can only be accessed by a special scanner used by animal shelters, vets, and other professionals. The process of inserting the microchip is quick and relatively painless, similar to a routine vaccine shot.

Benefits of Microchipping

The biggest benefit of microchipping your pet is the increased chance of being reunited if they were to become lost. Collars and tags can easily get lost or removed, making it difficult for someone to identify your pet and contact you. However, a microchip is a permanent form of identification that cannot be lost or removed. When your pet is found, they can be scanned and their unique identification number will be linked to your contact information, making it easy for you to be contacted and your pet to be returned to you.

Another benefit of microchipping is that it can prevent pet theft. Unfortunately, pets can be stolen and sold for a profit. With a microchip, it is easier to prove ownership and to have your pet returned to you if they are found in the possession of someone else.

Lastly, microchipping is a great form of proof of ownership. In the case of a dispute or if someone claims to be the owner of your pet, a microchip can be used as evidence to prove that you are the rightful owner.

The Process of Microchipping

The process of microchipping your pet is quick and easy. It can be done at your regular vet visit, or you can make a separate appointment specifically for microchipping. The microchip is inserted under the skin, usually between the shoulder blades, with a special needle. This is similar to a routine vaccine shot and only takes a few seconds. Your pet may feel a small pinch, but the discomfort is minimal.

After the microchip is inserted, you will need to provide your contact information, including your name, address, and phone number, to the national pet registry. This information will be linked to your pet’s unique identification number. It is crucial to keep your contact information updated in the registry in case you move or change phone numbers.

Additional Tips

It is important to know that a microchip is not a GPS device. It cannot track your pet’s location and only contains your contact information. It is still important to have your pet wear a collar with a tag that includes your contact information as a visible form of identification.

If you adopt a pet from a shelter or rescue, there is a high chance that they have already been microchipped. Be sure to double-check with the shelter or rescue and update the contact information in the registry with your own.

Conclusion

Microchipping your pet is a smart and responsible decision for any pet owner. It provides a permanent and reliable form of identification that greatly increases the chances of being reunited with your pet if they become lost. The process is quick and easy, and the benefits are immeasurable. Don’t wait, get your pet microchipped today!