What Is a Microchip and Does My Pet Need One?

If a pet ever gets lost, one of the best ways to return that animal home is with a microchip. This small piece of equipment stays inside your pet for their whole life and can be used to identify them.

What Is a Pet Microchip?

A pet microchip is a tiny electronic chip, about the size of a grain of rice. A vet inserts it

underneath the skin on either side of the animal's shoulders. The process is fast and does not require anesthesia for most animals.

When a pet with a microchip is brought into a vet's office, animal shelter, or anywhere with a microchip scanner, the vet or shelter worker can scan the pet and read the microchip ID. They can then use that ID to look up the pet's owner. It is important to note that a microchip is not a GPS tracker.

Does My Pet Need a Microchip?

Many pets would benefit from having a microchip. Dogs and cats are very curious creatures and will often find a way out of an open door or gate. Pets can become frightened by thunderstorms and other weather events and hide or run away. Although it may seem impossible, indoor cats do sometimes run away. A pet collar with an ID tag is a good way to help return a lost animal, but these tags can break or become unreadable.

Microchips are a great way to make sure your pet can be identified even if they don't have a collar on. Microchipping your pet can be especially helpful if your animal is adopted, frequently travels, or has a history of getting loose or running away. Many places or countries require pets to have a microchip. Ask your vet if microchipping is right for your pet.

How Do I Make Sure the Microchip Works?

Once your pet has a microchip, there is one more step to make sure that it works. You have to sign up to make sure that your information is connected to the microchip. If you change your phone number, email or move, be sure and update your information with the microchip registry.

Ask your vet to scan your pet's microchip on a regular basis to make sure that it is working properly. Keep your pet's collar and any ID tags on the collar up to date as well.

Is Microchipping Safe?

For most pets, microchipping is a very safe procedure. Your animal may feel a slight pinch as the chip is inserted but most pets do not feel anything at all. In rare cases pets may have more serious reactions to the implant.

The Bottom Line

A microchip is a small, safe way to keep your pet from getting lost forever. While a collar and ID tag are still a good way to help return a lost animal, microchips are another method to help an owner find their pet.

If your pet does not have a microchip, talk to your vet about getting one. If your pet does have a microchip, make sure that your contact information is up to date and that the microchip is working. Just a few minutes with your vet can now and then prevent your animal from becoming lost.