August 15th is Check The Chip Day! Microchips are very small, and they aren’t something most pet owners think of on a daily basis. However, that tiny device can be a very powerful tool if you and your furry best friend are ever separated. If your pet isn’t chipped yet, you’ll want to see to this right away. A Crown Point, IN vet discusses microchips in this article.
How Microchips Work
Microchips don’t use GPS technology, though you can buy collars that will track your pet’s location. Each chip has a unique identification number, which is associated with your account in the chipmaker’s database. That number can be read with scanners used by veterinarians and animal shelters. To date, microchips have facilitated the reunions of thousands—if not millions—of lost pets with their owners.
The Process
It only takes a few moments to get your pet microchipped. The procedure is very simple. It’s often done along with spay/neuter surgery, but it can also be scheduled separately. Your vet will use a hypodermic needle to insert the chip beneath your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. Your pet won’t need any after care or recovery time, aside from an extra nap and maybe a snack. However, getting your pet microchipped is just one part of the process. The next step is to complete your records in the chipmaker’s database. This is very important! If your pet is ever lost and brought to a vet or shelter, they won’t be able to reach you if they don’t have your contact information. You’ll also have to update this information every time you move or change your contact information.
Checking The Chip
Chips don’t need to be maintained, per se. However, we do recommend having your vet check the chip during your pet’s regular appointments. This is just to ensure that it’s still functioning properly, and has not moved or malfunctions. It’s also important to keep your records current. If your pet has already been microchipped, you can try using the AAHA Universal Pet Microchip Lookup Tool here to double check your records. Just keep in mind that if it turns out that you do need to update your information, you’ll have to contact your service provider to do so.
Does your pet need microchipping? We can help! Contact us, your local Crown Point, IN vet clinic, today!
