Microchips

Microchips have become a more common means for identification in pets. Clients come into our clinic with several common questions that I would like to share with you to help you make the decisions whether a microchip is right for your pet.

First, let's start with what is a microchip? A microchip is a very small computer chip that has a number programmed in it that is unique for every microchip. It is small enough to fit into a hypodermic needle to be injected below the skin, between the shoulder blades. Once injected, it will remain in your pets its entire life. It cannot be felt or seen.

Why would you want to microchip your pet? Microchips are a way to permanently identify your pet. They cannot be lost, damaged, or changed unlike tags that are attached to collars. Some pets have been reunited with owners thousands of miles away and over long periods of time!

How young can a pet be microchipped, and does it hurt? Pets as young as 6 to 8 weeks of age can be microchipped. It doesn't feel much different than when your pet receives vaccines. Your pet does not have to be sedated to be microchipped, though lots of owners elect to have the procedure done while their pet is already under anesthesia for its spay, neuter, or dental procedure. The microchip is designed not to cause an allergic response.

If your pet gets lost how will it be reunited with you? Most veterinary clinics and shelters have a microchip scanner. Whenever a dog or cat is found, it is scanned for a microchip. The scanner is similar to the one at a grocery store check-out and retrieves the chip number by sweeping it around the area of implantation (shoulder blades). The number appears on the scanner which can be used to contact the company of the chip and obtain the owner's contact information. Make sure you keep your identification information up to date with the microchip company. If your information changes the company can be called to update it.

Microchip identification has many advantages and is becoming common practice to have them implanted in pets. Many owners are electing for the procedure for extra piece of mind in case their pets are lost or stolen. The ease of updating information and the permanence of the identification are convenient and can be life-saving in many instances. If you have any further questions or concerns, please contact your veterinarian. They will be glad to help you any way they can.