Microchipping
What Is a Microchip?
A microchip is a transponder device, about the size of a grain of rice, that is injected under the loose skin between your pet's should blades. It is a quick and minimally invasive process that can be completed at the time of any scheduled visit. It is no more invasive than a vaccination.
What Is the Benefit?
As noted on the AKC website, one in three pets become lost at some point in their lives. Having a microchip allows any vet office, shelter, or rescue the ability to use a scanner to obtain the unique identifier associated with your pet's microchip. This unique identifier is tied to your contact information making a reunion with your pet all the more likely.
Does It Hurt?
The initial injection, like any needle prick, will have minor discomfort that will fade away almost as quickly as it comes on. Often times we will do this during your pet's spay or neuter procedure while they are under anesthesia further minimizing any discomfort.
How Do I Register the Microchip?
It is important that you register the microchip immediately after leaving your veterinarian's office. We will provide you with information to complete registration online. Anytime you relocate or change contact information be sure to update the database information. There is generally a one time fee for registering to the database.
Unsure If Yours is Registered?
Can't remember if you registered your pet's chip? Uncertain if you updated the information after your last move? Don't know the company/website to make update with? Search this information by entering your pet's microchip number. This can be scanned next time you are at the vet, found on your rabies certificate, and often times printed on your pet's medical records and/or invoices.
AAHA Position Statement & Endorsement
Visit AAHA's (American Animal Hospital Association) website for their endorsement and additional information on microchipping.