One of the first questions new pet owners ask is whether or not they should microchip their new family member. This is a common question our team gets and, simply put, the short answer is: yes!
But let’s take a look at why microchipping is important, what the benefits are, and why you should have your pet chipped-up. Additionally, we answer frequently asked questions about microchipping.
About Microchipping Technology
A microchip is an identification implant that is placed under the skin of your pet. This small chip has a unique ID number that is stored on a central registry – HomeAgain and AVID are two popular registrars. In the event your cat or dog goes missing and is brought to a veterinarian or animal shelter, there’s a very good chance they’ll check for a microchip and, in this event, an even better chance that you’ll be reunited with your loved one.
How Microchips Work
- A veterinarian implants the microchip under your pet’s skin, usually in the fatty, loose area on the back between the shoulder blades. Then checks to ensure the chip is working and that your contact information is accurate.
- Your lost dog, cat, rabbit, bird, or horse is checked for a chip and scanned to identify it owner.
- The organization that receives your lost pet looks up your contact information and reaches out to schedule a pickup time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Microchipping
We get a lot of questions about pet microchipping and we below we address many of them. If you don’t see the answer you seek, please feel free to reach out directly.
What age can you microchip a puppy or kitten?
Your pet is ready to be microchipped as early as eight weeks old.
Do microchips hurt dogs or cats?
Receiving the microchip implant does cause brief pain, similar to the vaccine shots they receive; however, this causes minimal discomfort and a few good scritches will have them forgetting all about it after a few moments.
Can a microchip be removed from a dog or cat?
Yes. The process involves minor surgery, although it’s not a very common procedure. If your pet had a previous owner, you (your vet) can update the registry with your information. Similarly, if your pet will have a new owner, they can have the chip information updated.
How much does it cost to microchip a dog or cat?
Prices vary depending on the vet office or chip implant service, perhaps even based on location. But you can expect to spend approximately $45 for the procedure.
What information is contained in the microchip?
The chip itself contains a unique identification number. The information that the registrar has in connection with the chip includes the pet owner’s name, address, email, and phone number.
Does a microchip replace identification tags and rabies tags?
No. You shouldn’t rely on microchipping as a way for a lost pet to be identified. Physical tags, such as custom engraved ID and rabies tags, are reliable and can lead to your pet being returned home faster. If your lost pet is never scanned, you may not get your furry friend back. So please keep those physical tags.
How can I find out if my pet is microchipped?
You have to visit a veterinarian or shelter that has a scanner on hand. If you’ve found a dog or cat who appears to be lost, please do take it to your local veterinarian to have it scanned.
Why should I have my animals microchipped?
Microchipping your pet provides permanent identification, reunification assistance, and a backup in the event tags are lost.
What are some of the problems associated with microchips?
There aren’t many issues associated with microchips; however, known problems can include:
- Migration under the skin, where the chip moves or shifts from its original implant location. This could make it harder for a scanner to locate, but rarely is the chip not found.
- If your pet is not scanned, he/she may not be identified. For a microchip to work, someone has to scan your pet.
- Database information could be inaccurate. If you move, change your phone or email address, be sure to update the registrar you’re listed on.
Get Your Pet Microchipped Today
If you are looking to get your pet microchipped, wondering if your pet has already been microchipped, or looking to answer any additional questions regarding microchipping, do not hesitate to contact us here at Continental Animal Wellness Center. Our staff is passionate about helping pets and pet owners and looks forward to helping Flagstaff with all of their pet needs!
Interested In Learning More About Our Puppy and Kitten Packages?
Our puppy and kitten packages cover everything you need to give the newest member of your family a healthy start in life! Click the button below to learn more!