As pet owners, the safety and well-being of our furry friends are always a top priority. With the rise of pet theft and pet-related accidents, microchipping pets has become a crucial tool in reuniting lost pets with their owners. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the importance of microchipping your pet and why it is the best form of identification available.
What is Microchipping In Pets?
Microchipping is a technology that has revolutionized the way we identify and track our pets. This small electronic device called a microchip, is implanted under the skin of an animal or a person for identification or tracking purposes. The process is relatively safe, and the microchip is designed to last the lifetime of the animal.
One of the primary uses of microchipping is to provide a simple, safe, and permanent form of identification for your pet. A microchip is a tiny, rice-sized device that is implanted under your pet’s skin, typically between their shoulder blades.
The microchip contains a unique identification number that can be read using a special device, such as a handheld scanner. This unique identification number is then linked to your contact information, allowing your pet to be quickly and easily identified if they go missing.
Microchipping has become a popular method of identifying lost pets. In animals, such as dogs and cats, microchipping is a common way to identify the owner of a lost pet. If the pet is found and brought to a shelter or veterinary clinic, the microchip can be scanned to retrieve the owner’s contact information. This process is much faster and more accurate than relying on traditional identification methods, such as collars and tags, which can easily fall off or become lost.
Not only is microchipping used to identify lost pets but it is also used in livestock for management and tracking purposes. Farmers and ranchers use microchips to identify individual animals, track their movements, and monitor their health. This allows them to manage their herds more efficiently and effectively.
Why Is It Essential To Microchipping Pets?
Below are the 5 Reasons why you should Microchip your pet:
1. Increases the chances of reuniting with your pet
The primary benefit of microchipping is that it increases the chances of reuniting with your pet if they are lost or stolen. If a lost pet is found, a veterinarian or animal shelter can scan the microchip and retrieve the owner’s information.
This information can then be used to contact the owner and arrange for the pet to be returned. In fact, according to the American Humane Association, microchipped pets are more than twice as likely to be reunited with their owners compared to non-microchipped pets
2. Permanent Identification
A microchip is a permanent form of identification for your pet. Unlike a collar or tag, which can be lost or removed, the microchip will stay with your pet for its entire life. This means that even if your pet is lost for an extended period, there will still be a way to identify them and return them to you.
3. Easy to Install
Microchipping is a simple and quick procedure that can be done by a veterinarian. The procedure only takes a few minutes, and there is no need for general anesthesia or any significant discomfort for the pet. In most cases, the microchip is inserted using a hypodermic needle, which is no more painful than a regular shot.
4. Cost-Effective
Compared to the cost of searching for a lost pet or advertising for their return, the cost of microchipping is minimal. It’s a small investment that could ultimately save you a lot of time, stress, and money. Moreover, many animal shelters and veterinary clinics offer low-cost or free microchipping services, making it even more accessible for pet owners.
5. Required by Law
In some states, microchipping is required by law for all pets. In others, it is mandatory for certain breeds or for pets that have been picked up by animal control. Check with your local government to see if microchipping is required in your area.
How Does Microchipping In Pet Work?
Microchipping is a procedure that involves implanting a small electronic device, called a microchip, under the skin of an animal or a person for identification or tracking purposes.
This procedure is commonly used in pets like dogs and cats as a means of identification and to help reunite lost pets with their owners. Here are the detailed steps on how microchipping works:
Pre-implantation
The first step of the microchipping process involves purchasing the microchip and making an appointment with a veterinarian or trained professional. The microchip comes in a sterile, pre-loaded applicator, and the veterinarian will explain the process to you.
Preparation
Once at the veterinary clinic, the animal is scanned to ensure that they are not already microchipped. If the animal is already microchipped, the existing microchip will need to be removed before the new one can be implanted. The area where the microchip will be inserted is then shaved and cleaned to prevent infection.
Implantation
The microchip is then implanted under the animal’s skin, typically between the shoulder blades. The procedure is quick and generally painless, similar to a routine vaccination. The microchip is about the size of a grain of rice, and the process is generally completed within a few seconds.
Post-implantation
After the implantation process, the animal is checked to ensure that the microchip is properly inserted and functioning correctly. The animal is then given aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing of the area.
Registration
The final step of microchipping is registering the microchip in a database. The unique identification number on the microchip is linked to the owner’s contact information, such as their name, address, and phone number. This database can be accessed by animal shelters, veterinarians, and other animal control agencies in the event that the animal is lost or stolen.
Scanning
If a lost animal is found, the microchip can be scanned using a special scanner. The scanner reads the unique identification number on the microchip, which is then used to retrieve the owner’s contact information from the database. The owner can then be contacted and reunited with their lost pet.
NOTE- microchipping is a safe and effective way to identify and track pets. The process involves purchasing a microchip, preparing the animal, implanting the microchip, registering the microchip in a database, and scanning the microchip to retrieve the owner’s contact information. It is important to keep your contact information up-to-date in the database to ensure that you can be contacted in the event that your pet goes missing.
Conclusion
Microchipping is an important tool for pet owners to ensure the safety and well-being of their pets. With its numerous benefits, including permanent identification, increased chances of reuniting with a lost pet, and cost-effectiveness, it’s no surprise that pet microchipping has become a standard practice among pet owners.
So, if you haven’t already, consider microchipping your pet today and give yourself peace of mind knowing that your furry friend is always safe and secure.
FAQS
Q1. What is microchipping and why is it important?
A. Microchipping is a procedure that involves implanting a small chip under the skin of your pet, usually between the shoulder blades. This chip contains a unique identification number that can be scanned by a special device. Microchipping is important because it provides a permanent way to identify your pet, which can increase the chances of reuniting with them if they get lost or stolen.
Q2. How is the microchip implanted and is it painful for my pet?
A. The microchip is implanted using a hypodermic needle, which is a similar process to giving a vaccination. The procedure is quick and generally painless, with most pets experiencing little to no discomfort.
Q3. Is microchipping safe for my pet?
A. Yes, microchipping is a safe procedure for your pet. The microchip is made of biocompatible materials that are designed to be compatible with your pet’s body, and there is a very low risk of any adverse reactions or complications.
Q4. How much does it cost to microchip a pet?
A. The cost of microchipping your pet can vary depending on your location and the type of chip used. On average, you can expect to pay between $25 and $50 for the procedure.
Q5. Is microchipping required by law?
A. Microchipping is not required by law in all areas, but it is recommended by many organizations, including the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Animal Hospital Association. Some states and municipalities may require microchipping for certain types of pets.
Q6. What information is stored on the microchip?
A. The microchip contains a unique identification number that is linked to your pet’s information in a database. This information can include your name, address, phone number, and other important details that can help reunite you with your pet.
Q7. How do I update my pet’s information on the microchip?
A. To update your pet’s information on the microchip, you will need to contact the database company where your pet’s microchip is registered. You can usually do this online or over the phone.
Q8. Can a microchip be removed or damaged?
A. It is very rare for a microchip to be removed or damaged, as it is designed to be a permanent form of identification. However, if you have any concerns about your pet’s microchip, you should contact your veterinarian.
Q9. How does microchipping differ from traditional pet identification methods like collars and tags?
A. Microchipping provides a permanent form of identification that cannot be easily lost or removed like a collar or tag. Additionally, if your pet is found by someone who is not familiar with your contact information, a microchip can provide a reliable way to reunite with your pet.
Q10. Can any pet be microchipped?
A. Most pets can be microchipped, including cats, dogs, rabbits, and even some exotic animals. Your veterinarian can help determine if your pet is a good candidate for microchipping.