Microchipping
Microchips are a permanent form of identification, about the size of a grain of rice, implanted under your pet’s skin. The process is similar to a vaccination. Microchips have a unique ID number, which is read by a handheld scanner used by vet clinics, animal shelters, and animal control agencies.
The microchip does not contain pet owner information. The microchip’s unique ID number is registered with the microchip company with the pet and owner’s information. If a lost pet is found, it can be scanned for a microchip. The ID number will appear on the scanner, and the microchip company can be contacted to obtain the information needed to reunite the pet with its owner.
A study in 2009 (Lord et al, JAVMA, July 15, 2009) showed lost dogs and cats with microchips were returned to their owners in higher percentages than non-microchipped pets. Outdated registration information proved to be the biggest problem with microchipping pets. Microchips only work if the registration information is kept up to date. If you move or change phone numbers, please call the microchip company with your new information.
Microchips are NOT a GPS. You cannot track your pet with a microchip.
Microchips do not take the place of ID collars. Microchips are another layer of protection in case a pet’s ID collar falls off.
Microchips should last the life of a pet, but it is a good idea to scan pets yearly to make sure the microchip is still working. Your vet clinic or local animal shelter should be able to do it for you.
Not sure if your pet has a microchip, make an appointment to have your pet scanned. If it has a microchip, we can give you the contact information for the microchip company, so you can verify and/or update your information. If your pet does not have one, we can microchip your pet.
Microchipping Pets are by Apointment Only:
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Hours: 10 AM to 2 PM
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Tuesday - Saturday
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Cost: $20
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