It unfortunately only takes a moment for your pet to escape through the front door or break away from their leash, and many lost pets never find their way back home because they have no identifying information attached to them when they get away. Tags on collars are great, but pets often break or lose their collars when they run away, and there is no guarantee they will stay clipped to your pet. Microchipping is a way to ensure your pet can find their way home with permanent identification 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 and it stores information, like your contact information, which is delivered via radio waves. When your pet is lost and someone scans them with the right type of 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 an animal’s body, so any discomfort or rejection 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. The procedure is simple. The vet will inject the microchip using a sterile syringe into your pet’s skin between the shoulder blades. The procedure is quick and causes minimal discomfort, just like a vaccination.
Once your pet is microchipped, we will register it for you, and give you the information you need to make any adjustments going forward at the time of your appointment. 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 that in the event your pet is lost, they can be returned to you.
What Happens if Your Pet Gets Lost?
If your pet is lost, the people who find them can take them 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.
Microchipping your pet is an added layer of protection in the event that your pet is lost. Schedule your appointment with us today 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.
