Microchipping increases the likelihood of your pet being brought home, if they ever get lost. Since your pet’s ID, like their tags and collars, can easily be removed or fall off, microchipping is a permanent tool for identifying them. If they are found and brought to a veterinary office, animal shelter or humane society, a scanner can be used to detect the chip and contact you.

Do microchips transmit a GPS signal?

Microchips include radio frequency that is detected with a handheld scanner. It does not work like a GPS signal where the exact location of your pet is traceable. For example, if your pet is lost and brought into our veterinary hospital, we’ll use our handheld scanner to pick up the radio frequency, which provides us with information about the chip’s serial number. Each serial number is connected with a pet recovery system, which can provide us with details about your pet, like your name and contact information. If you move or change your phone number, it’s important to provide us with your new contact information so it can be changed in the pet recovery registry.

How often do I need to replace my pet’s microchip?

One microchip will last your pet their entire lifetime. It is typically implanted between your furry friend’s shoulder blades and is only the size of a rice grain. The implantation is a non-invasive procedure that doesn’t require your pet to be under anesthesia. A needle puts the microchip in place. Within 24 hours, your pet’s tissues connect to the chip, helping to permanently hold it in place.

Are microchips the only ID my pet needs?

The more different IDs your pet has increases the chances they’ll be found. In addition to microchips, collars and tags are also great for your pet to have. Just like with the pet recovery registry, it’s important to keep your contact information up-to-date on your pet’s collars and tags. If you’re interested in having your pet microchipped, please contact us at 705-476-3913.