It only takes a moment for your pet to bolt out the door or break away from his leash, and many lost pets never find their way home because they have no form of identification when they get away. Tags on collars are great, but pets often break or lose their collars in their attempt at freedom. Microchipping is a way to ensure your pet can find his way home, with permanent identification always in place. Here is a closer look at how you can use a microchip to keep your pet safe.
What Is a Microchip?
A microchip is a tiny electronic device that is injected into your pet just below the skin. It’s only about as big as a grain of rice, but it stores information, like your contact information, which is delivered via radio waves. When your pet is lost and someone scans them with a universal microchip scanner, they can access the contact information and get your pet back to you.
Is Microchipping Safe?
Microchips do not need a power source and contain no moving parts, so they are safe to stay in your pet for a lifetime. They are made from material that is compatible with your pet's body, so any discomfort or rejection after implantation is very rare. Over time, the microchip will become encased in the tissue, which means it will not move around the body.
What to Expect at a Microchipping Appointment
If you wish to have your pet microchipped, simply ask about it at your next appointment so we can go over the options of when to microchip. The microchip is applied using a sterile syringe into your pet’s skin between the shoulder blades. The procedure is quick like a vaccination but is more painful due to the size of the needle used to implant the microchip. We often microchip our patients at the time of an anesthetized procedure such as their spay, neuter or dental cleaning. This way, your pet won't feel the injection of the microchip. If that is not an option, we will use topical lidocaine to numb the area of the injection prior to implanting the microchip. Our staff can help you decide which option works better for your pet!
Once your pet is microchipped, you will receive paperwork that tells you how to register the microchip. Registering is very important, because that is how your information gets put on to the microchip. If you don’t register the microchip, it is worthless. Also, you will need to keep this information so you can change your contact information if you move or get a new phone number. Up-to-date information is critical to making sure you protect your pet with your microchip.
What Happens if Your Pet Gets Lost?
If your pet is lost, the people who find him can take him to a local vet or shelter to be scanned. If your microchip information is up-to-date, the scanner will find your contact information and the vet or shelter staff can give you a call. You are able to collect your pet and return him home easily.
Microchipping your pet is a simple solution to add a layer of protection in case your pet is lost. Schedule your appointment today with Goshen Animal Hospital to have your pet microchipped, and give yourself the peace of mind that comes from knowing you will always have a way to be reunited.
