How Does Pet Microchipping Work?

Going Over Pet Microchipping, What It Is, How It Works, And Why It’s Important In Honor Of Check The Chip Day, August 15th

August 15th marks Check the Chip Day, a time to raise awareness about the importance of microchipping pets and ensuring their chip information is up to date. Microchipping is a simple yet powerful tool for reuniting lost pets with their families. If you’re curious about how it works and why it’s essential, let’s dive into the details.

What Is Pet Microchipping?

Microchipping is the process of implanting a tiny electronic chip, roughly the size of a grain of rice, just under your pet’s skin. This chip contains a unique identification number that can be read with a specialized scanner. The procedure is quick and safe, performed by a veterinarian using a syringe-like device.

Once implanted, the microchip serves as a permanent ID for your pet. Unlike collars or tags that can fall off or be removed, a microchip stays with your pet for life.

How Does It Work?

1. Implantation: The chip is inserted under your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades.
2. Registration: After implantation, the unique ID number is registered in a pet recovery database, along with your contact information.
3. Scanning: If your lost pet is found, a vet or shelter will use a scanner to read the microchip’s ID number. This number is then matched to your contact details in the database.
4. Reunion: Once you’re contacted, you can be reunited with your furry friend!

Why Is Microchipping Important?

• Increases Chances of Reuniting: Studies show that microchipped pets are significantly more likely to be reunited with their owners. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), dogs with microchips are returned to their owners 52.2% of the time compared to 21.9% for non-microchipped dogs. For cats, the return rate is 38.5% compared to 1.8% for non-microchipped cats.
• Permanent Identification: Unlike collars and tags, which can be lost or removed, a microchip stays with your pet for life.
• Proof of Ownership: In disputes, a registered microchip can serve as legal proof of ownership.

Common Misconceptions About Microchipping

• Microchips Are GPS Trackers: Microchips do not track your pet’s location. They only provide a unique ID number that links to your contact information in a database.
• The Procedure Is Painful: The implantation process is quick and similar to receiving a vaccination. Most pets experience minimal discomfort.
• Registration Isn’t Necessary: Implanting the microchip is only the first step. Registering it with your current contact information is crucial for its effectiveness.

Check Your Pet’s Chip This Check The Chip Day

To ensure your pet’s microchip is ready to do its job, take the following steps:

1. Verify Registration: Contact the microchip company to confirm your contact details are up to date.
2. Test the Chip: Ask your vet to scan the chip during your next visit to ensure it’s functioning properly.
3. Update Information Promptly: If you move or change your phone number, update the information with the microchip registry immediately.

Microchipping Can Reunite You With Your Lost Pet

Pet microchipping is a simple yet highly effective way to protect your furry family members. On Check the Chip Day, take a few moments to ensure your pet’s microchip information is up to date. It could make all the difference in bringing them home safely if they ever get lost. Have you checked your pet’s chip today?

Hire A Pet Sitter Today!

Do you or someone you know need a pet sitter? Then look no further than ParaMount Pet Care! We are the leading pet care professionals in the Luzerne County area. All of our sitters are insured, bonded, trained in pet CPR & first aid, and dedicated to caring for your pets. 

We offer a wide variety of pet sitting services such as in-home pet sitting, routine dog walking, overnight stays, and more! Click here to see all of our services! Click here to become a client today or give us a call at 570-814-1037. We look forward to hearing from you soon! Be sure to check us out on Facebook and Instagram too. We post adorable pictures of pets everyday that you won’t want to miss!