Taking An In-Depth Look Into Pet Microchipping, How It Works, And Why It’s Important In Honor Of National Check The Chip Day
In honor of National Check The Chip Day, it’s the perfect time to explore how pet microchipping works and why it’s such an essential tool for keeping our furry friends safe. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when your pet is microchipped, this article will break down the process and explain why it’s a crucial step in responsible pet ownership.
What Is Pet Microchipping?
A pet microchip is a small, electronic chip enclosed in a biocompatible glass capsule, about the size of a grain of rice. This microchip contains a unique identification number that is linked to the pet owner’s contact information. It’s a permanent form of identification that can’t be removed or lost, unlike collars or tags.
How Is The Microchip Implanted?
The microchipping process is quick and simple. The microchip is implanted just under your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. This is done with a hypodermic needle, similar to those used for vaccinations. The procedure is minimally invasive and doesn’t require anesthesia. Most pets experience only mild discomfort, similar to getting a shot.
How Does It Work?
Once the microchip is implanted, it remains inactive until it is scanned. When a scanner is passed over the pet’s body, the microchip is activated by the scanner’s radio waves. The chip transmits the unique identification number to the scanner, which then displays the number on a screen.
What Happens After Scanning?
After the chip is scanned and the identification number is retrieved, the next step is to match the number with the owner’s contact information. This information is stored in a microchip database, and each microchip manufacturer has its own registry. When a lost pet is found and its chip scanned, veterinarians, animal shelters, or animal control officers can contact the registry to locate the owner.
Why Is It Important to Keep Information Updated?
Microchipping is only effective if the contact information associated with the chip is current. National Check The Chip Day serves as a reminder for pet owners to update their contact information in the microchip registry. If you move, change phone numbers, or adopt a new pet, it’s essential to update the database to ensure that you can be contacted if your pet is found.
The Benefits of Microchipping
1.Permanent Identification:
Unlike collars or tags, microchips provide a permanent form of identification that can’t be removed or lost.
2.Quick Reunions:
Pets with microchips are much more likely to be reunited with their owners. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, dogs with microchips are returned to their owners 2.5 times more often than those without, and cats are 20 times more likely to be returned.
3.Peace Of Mind:
Knowing that your pet has a microchip offers peace of mind. If your pet ever goes missing, you have a higher chance of being reunited.
4.Supports Responsible Pet Ownership:
Microchipping is a responsible step in pet ownership. It ensures that your pet can always be identified and returned to you, even if they wander far from home.
The Value Of Pet Microchipping
As National Check The Chip Day reminds us, microchipping is an invaluable tool in pet safety. It’s a quick, simple procedure that can make all the difference in ensuring your pet’s safe return if they ever get lost. If your pet isn’t microchipped yet, consider making an appointment with your veterinarian. And if your pet is already chipped, take a moment today to check that your contact information is up to date. It’s a small task that can have a big impact on your pet’s safety and your peace of mind.
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