Microchipping Procedure explained
Microchipping your pet is a simple and effective way to ensure they can be identified and returned to you if they ever get lost.
A microchip is a tiny electronic device about the size of a grain of rice that is implanted just under your pet’s skin.
This is a quick procedure that involves the medical staff using a sterile needle to insert the microchip under your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades.
Benefits over Collars and Tags
Microchipping is permanent and cannot be lost unlike collars and tags which could easily fall off or be lost. Animals without chips could easily have a collar removed and/or replaced but when a patient is microchipped, the pet is provided with a unique ID number.
This number is linked to your contact information in a secure database which ensures that even if your pet loses its collar, they can still be identified. Knowing your pet has this permanent form of identification allows you as the owner to have peace of mind.
How microchipping and registration work
After the microchip is implanted, it must be registered with the company’s recovery database. This will link your pet’s microchip ID number to you and your contact information including your name, phone number and address.
When having your pet microchipped with us, we complete the registration process for you. Although this process will be completed before you leave the practice, we ask that when you arrive home, please log in and check that all the information is complete and that you have added all the additional benefits you’d like as part of your membership.
If your pet is microchipped but not with us, we can help provide you with your pet’s ID number so you can check with the proper microchip company and make sure your information is linked and correct.
Difference between microchipping cats and dogs
Microchipping cats and dogs are quite similar. Both are done by placing the microchip under the skin between the shoulder blades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is microchipping painful for my pet?
Most pets experience minimal discomfort during microchipping. However, stress and discomfort can be prevented if you have the procedure done during an anesthetic procedure like a spay, neuter, or dentistry.
How does microchipping help if my pet gets lost?
If your pet is found and scanned, the microchip links to your contact info, making it easier for shelters or vets to reunite you quickly.
At what age can my pet be microchipped?
Pets can be safely microchipped as early as 6–8 weeks old, and it’s often done during a wellness visit or spay/neuter surgery.
Do I need to Register my Pet’s Microchip?
Yes- registration is what connects the chip to your contact details, and it’s essential for the microchip to be effective.
Can a microchip track location like a GPS?
No—microchips don’t use GPS; they store ID numbers that can be scanned at shelters or clinics to retrieve your contact info.
