| Microchip your pet | Found Animals Pet Microchip 411 |
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We encourage all pet owners to provide their pets with proper identification. That includes having your pet wear:
What is a microchip? A microchip is a small device, roughly the size of a grain of rice. This device, which contains a unique ID number is used to identify your pet in case he or she becomes lost. How is the microchip implanted? A microchip is administered much like a vaccination, with a syringe and is injected under the skin in the scruff of the animal’s neck. Does the microchip hurt? Implanting a microchip is essentially the same as administering a vaccination. So, while your pet may feel a pinch, any pain should be over very quickly. Once the microchip has been inserted, your pet won’t notice it’s even there. How often does a microchip have to be replaced? Never - in 99% of cases, the microchip lasts for the lifetime of your pet. Is the microchip a GPS or LoJack device? Unfortunately, a microchip is not a pet tracking device – the chip is only activated when your pet is scanned by a vet or shelter. However, a microchip will allow any vet’s office or animal care and control center to find your contact information based on the chip number. How does the microchip work? When your pet is found by a vet’s office or animal care and control center, the employees will use a microchip scanner. The scanner will detect the unique ID number associated with your pet’s microchip. This unique number is linked to your contact information in the microchip manufacturer’s database. The staff will obtain this information and then contact you, letting you know where you can pick your pet up. How will they know where to reach me when they find my pet? When your pet’s chip was originally implanted, you may have been given the option to register your information with the manufacturer. Or your information may only be on file with the facility where your pet was chipped. To increase the likelihood that you will be reunited with your lost pet, we recommend registering with the microchip manufacturer. Additionally, if you ever move or change phone numbers, you will have to update your contact info with the manufacturer so their files are current. My pet wears an ID tag every day. Why do I need to have him microchipped? When a pet becomes lost it is not uncommon for his/her collar to fall off. If this occurs, the only ID your pet will have is their microchip because it is permanent and embedded beneath their skin. What are the most common microchip manufacturers and how can I contact them? You’ll need to ask your veterinarian or local animal care and control center to scan your pet if you are not sure what type of microchip they have. Write down the manufacturer’s name as well as your pet’s unique microchip number and then call the corresponding manufacturer to update your contact information.
I want to get my pet chipped, where can I go? Microchipping is a service most veterinary offices provide. For a lower cost option, contact your local municipal animal care and control center as many offer microchip clinics. Download our quick guide to pet protection:
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