What You Should Know About Microchipping Your Pet
Are you worried about losing your beloved furry friend? It is a nightmare for any pet owner to think of their pet getting lost or being unable to find them in case of an emergency. Thankfully, with the advancement in technology, we now have a solution that offers peace of mind – microchipping your pet. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about microchipping and why it is such a critical step in ensuring the safety and well-being of your beloved pet.
To start with, what exactly is microchipping? It is a simple procedure where a tiny, rice-sized chip is inserted under your pet’s skin, usually around their shoulder blades. This chip contains a unique identification number that can be scanned by a veterinarian or animal shelter using a handheld scanner. Once the chip is implanted, you need to register it with your contact information in a national pet registry database.
One of the most significant advantages of microchipping your pet is that it serves as a permanent form of identification. Unlike collars or tags that can become lost or removed, the microchip remains inside your pet, ensuring that their identification is always present. This is especially crucial in situations where your pet may slip out of their collar or if they are stolen and their collar is removed.
Another important aspect to consider is that microchips offer a quick and efficient way to reunite lost pets with their owners. If your pet gets lost, their chances of being returned are significantly increased if they are microchipped. Animal shelters, veterinary clinics, and rescue groups typically scan lost pets for microchips upon intake. If your pet is found, their identification number can be matched to your contact information in the registry database, allowing you to be promptly contacted.
It is essential to note that microchips are not GPS trackers, meaning they do not provide real-time location tracking for your pet. The microchip simply holds information that can be accessed by a veterinary professional or shelter. However, the growing popularity of GPS-enabled collars and devices does offer an additional layer of security for pet owners who want real-time tracking capabilities.
Furthermore, microchipping is a safe and non-invasive procedure that can be done during a routine visit to the veterinarian. The microchip is inserted using a hypodermic needle, similar to a routine vaccination, and most pets tolerate it well without any adverse reactions. Since the chip is biocompatible and made from materials that are similar to those used in medical implants, there is little risk of rejection or discomfort for your furry friend.
It is important to emphasize that while microchipping is a vital step in pet safety, it should not replace other forms of identification. Collars with tags that display your contact information are still necessary, as they provide immediate visibility of your pet’s owner details to anyone who finds them. Remember to keep your pet’s microchip information up to date in the registry database, especially if you move or change phone numbers.
In conclusion, microchipping your pet is a small but significant step that every responsible pet owner should consider. It provides a permanent form of identification, increases the chances of a lost pet being reunited with their owner, and offers peace of mind in case of unforeseen circumstances. Remember, the safety and well-being of your beloved furry friend should always be a top priority. So, go ahead and get your pet microchipped today!
