Microchipping your pet greatly increases their chances of reuniting with you if they go missing. In addition, microchip placement is a quick, painless procedure for your furry pal. Our Caldwell Animal Hospital team knows how devastating losing a pet can be, and we answer your frequently asked questions (FAQs) about microchipping.

Question: What is a pet microchip and how does the device work?

Answer: A pet microchip is a tiny, electronic device enclosed in a rice-sized glass cylinder that transmits a unique identification number. The microchip is composed of a capacitor, antenna, and connecting wire, and the biological covering helps prevent the device from moving around your pet’s body once implanted. When a compatible scanner is passed over the area, a low-power radiofrequency signal activates the microchip, inducing electromagnetic energy that generates electricity in the antenna and transmits the chip’s unique preprogrammed identification number. 

Q: Is a pet microchip a tracking device?

A: A pet microchip is not a tracking device. If your pet is found, a veterinarian or animal shelter employee will scan them to determine whether they have been chipped. The unique identification number stored in the microchip registration database is used to access your contact information.

Q: Why is microchipping my pet important?

A: If your microchipped furry pal runs away, you are more likely to be reunited than if they only have a collar and tags, which could easily fall off if your pet bolts in a panic. Microchipping your four-legged friend is important for many reasons including:

  • Increases the likelihood your pet will be returned — One in three pets go missing, but the likelihood that they will be returned home greatly increases if they are microchipped. Microchipped dogs are more than twice as likely to be returned to their owners. Microchipped cats are more than 20 times as likely to be returned to their owners. 
  • Identification is permanent — Unlike other identification forms, a microchip can’t be lost or removed, providing your four-legged friend with permanent identification.
  • Acts as proof of ownership — If your pet is stolen, their microchip can act as proof that you are the rightful owner. People often use pictures to prove their case in these situations, but many pets look identical, and a microchip provides much stronger evidence that your pet belongs to you.
  • Alleviates strain on animal shelters — According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), more than six million dogs and cats are surrendered to animal shelters every year. These facilities have limited space and meager budgets, resulting in many pets being euthanized when homes can’t be found. Microchipping your pet ensures they will be returned to you, leaving an animal shelter room to accommodate another lost or stray pet.
  • Necessary for travel — If you travel internationally with your four-legged friend, they must be microchipped, because most countries require microchips as part of the pet import process. 

Q: What does a pet microchipping procedure involve?

A: The microchipping procedure is quick and relatively painless. Using a hypodermic needle slightly larger than those used to give vaccinations, our Caldwell Animal Hospital team injects the tiny microchip under your pet’s skin between their shoulder blades. Microchipping can be performed at any time, but during your pet’s spay or neuter procedure is an ideal time. However, anesthesia is not necessary, and we can perform the quick procedure during a routine office visit. Once the microchip is implanted, you must register your pet’s chip and provide your contact information to the manufacturer’s website.

Q: How do I choose the right microchip manufacturer for my pet?

A: Many pet microchip manufacturers offer services, but not all are part of the American Animal Hospital Association’s (AAHA) Universal Pet Microchip Lookup Tool, which is the database veterinarians and animal shelters search. Manufacturers that participate in AAHA’s database include:

  • 24PetWatch
  • American Kennel Club (AKC) Companion Animal Recovery
  • EIDAP
  • Found Animals
  • HomeAgain
  • InfoPet
  • Microchip I.D. Systems
  • PetKey
  • Save This Life
  • Smart Tag Microchip

Q: Does the microchip replace my pet’s need for identification tags?

A: Microchipping is not meant to replace your pet’s identification or rabies tags. Your pet should always wear a collar and identification tags that have your up-to-date contact information. Ensure the tags are legible and securely attached to your four-legged friend’s collar. 

Q: How do I maintain my pet’s microchip?

A: Unline tags, microchips never have to be replaced. Once your furry pal’s microchip is implanted, maintenance is easy:

  • Keep information current — Ensure your contact information is current in the microchip registration database.
  • Check the chip — Ensure our Caldwell Animal Hospital team checks your pet’s microchip every year during their annual wellness examination.

Q: What complications can occur with a pet microchip?

A: Extremely few complications are associated with pet microchips. The most commonly reported issue is microchip migration from the original implantation site, which is extremely rare. Other rare problems include hair loss, swelling at the implantation site, and infection.

Microchipping your furry pal is an important step to keeping them happy, healthy, and by your side. To have your pet microchipped or schedule a wellness exam to have their chip checked, contact our Caldwell Animal Hospital team.