The Process and Benefits of Pet Microchipping

Losing a pet is every pet owner’s worst nightmare. Even with diligent care and secured backyards, pets can slip away unexpectedly. Fortunately, pet microchipping offers a powerful solution that greatly increases the odds of being reunited with your furry friend. Microchipping is a quick and effective procedure that provides your pet with permanent identification, ensuring they can always find their way home.

What Is Pet Microchipping and How Does It Work?

Pet microchipping is a simple yet highly effective method of identifying your pet. The process involves implanting a small microchip, roughly the size of a grain of rice, just beneath your pet’s skin. This microchip contains a unique identification number that can be scanned by veterinarians, animal shelters, and rescue organizations.

The microchip itself does not require batteries or a power source. Instead, it is activated when scanned by a specialized RFID (radio-frequency identification) device. Once scanned, the chip transmits your pet’s unique ID number. This number is linked to your contact information in a secure database, which enables authorities to contact you if your pet is found.

While microchipping does not provide GPS tracking, it does offer a reliable and permanent form of identification that cannot be removed or lost, like a collar or tag. For pet owners seeking peace of mind, microchipping is a powerful safety net.

The Key Benefits of Microchipping Your Pet

Microchipping offers numerous benefits that go beyond traditional forms of identification. Here are some key reasons why pet microchipping is essential for your pet’s safety and well-being:

Permanent Identification for Your Pet’s Safety

Unlike collars or tags, which can fall off or be removed, microchips are securely placed under the skin, ensuring permanent identification for your pet. Because the chip is embedded within your pet, there is no risk of it being lost, damaged, or intentionally removed. This ensures that your pet’s identity remains linked to your contact information at all times.

How Microchipping Increases Chances of Reuniting with Lost Pets

Studies show that microchipped pets are significantly more likely to be reunited with their owners than those without a chip. According to research, dogs with microchips are over twice as likely to be returned home, while microchipped cats are more than 20 times more likely to find their way back to their families.

Microchips make it easy for shelters, veterinary clinics, and animal control officers to identify lost pets. Once scanned, the microchip ID number links directly to your registered contact information. This seamless process means that even if your pet loses their collar, they can still be identified and returned home safely.

What to Expect During the Microchipping Procedure

The microchipping process is safe, fast, and relatively painless for your pet. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:

1. Preparation: Your veterinarian will discuss the procedure with you and confirm that your pet is healthy and ready for microchipping.
2. Insertion: Using a specially designed needle, the veterinarian will insert the microchip just beneath the skin, typically between your pet’s shoulder blades. The procedure is no more painful than a routine vaccination.
3. Registration: After the chip is implanted, your veterinarian will guide you through the registration process. This step ensures that your pet’s unique microchip ID is linked to your current contact information in the national pet recovery database.
4. Verification: Before you leave, the veterinarian will scan the microchip to confirm that it is functioning properly and that the ID number matches the registration records.

Addressing Common Questions About Microchipping

Many pet owners have questions and concerns about microchipping. Here are some common points clarified:

Is microchipping painful for my pet?

Not at all! The procedure feels similar to a routine vaccination. Most pets experience minimal discomfort and return to their normal behavior right away.

Does my pet need anesthesia for microchipping?

No anesthesia is required. The process is quick, and your pet will only feel a minor pinch during insertion.

How long does a microchip last?

Microchips are designed to last for your pet’s entire lifetime. They are made of durable materials that remain safely embedded under the skin without deteriorating.

Can a microchip track my pet’s location?

No. Microchips are not GPS devices. They provide identification but do not allow real-time tracking.

What happens if I move or change my contact information?

It’s crucial to update your information in the microchip registry if you move or change phone numbers. Keeping your details current ensures you can be reached if your pet is found.

Why Microchipping Is Essential for Pet Safety

Even with careful precautions, pets can sometimes escape, become lost, or even be stolen. Collars and tags are useful, but they can break, fall off, or be removed. Microchipping offers a permanent safety net, giving your pet a far greater chance of being identified and returned home safely.

Veterinarians strongly recommend microchipping all pets, whether they spend most of their time indoors or outdoors. Unexpected events like storms, accidents, or an open door can easily lead to a lost pet. Microchipping provides that extra layer of protection that no pet owner should overlook.

Give Your Pet the Protection They Deserve

At Rolling Plains Veterinary Corporation, we understand how important your pet’s safety is. Our experienced veterinarians are here to guide you through the pet microchipping process and ensure your furry friend receives the best possible care. We proudly serve a wide range of animals, from dogs and cats to cattle and horses, offering preventive treatments and emergency care.

Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule your pet’s microchipping appointment with us today. Together, we can ensure your beloved companion stays safe and secure and always finds its way home.

Categorised in: Pet Owners

This post was written by Dr. Marc Phillipot