Microchipping Your Pet at Markham Woods Animal Hospital
At Markham Woods Animal Hospital, one of the most important safety recommendations we make for every pet — whether they are indoor-only or love the outdoors — is microchipping. It’s a simple, quick procedure that can make the difference between a lost pet staying lost and a happy reunion with their family.
Many pet owners have heard of microchips, but not everyone fully understands how they work or why they are so important. Microchipping is a safe and reliable way to permanently identify your pet and greatly increase the chances that they will be returned to you if they ever get lost.
What is pet microchipping?
Microchipping is the process of placing a tiny chip, about the size of a grain of rice, under your pet’s skin to help identify them if they become lost. Each microchip contains a unique identification number that can be read with a special scanner. This number is linked to your contact information in a secure registry. If your pet is ever found and brought to a veterinary hospital, animal shelter, or animal control facility, they can scan for a chip, retrieve the ID number, and contact you right away.
How does a microchip help identify my pet?
Each microchip contains a unique ID number. That number is registered with a company along with your contact information, allowing your pet to be identified and returned to you if they are found.
How is a microchip implanted in my pet?
One of the most common concerns owners have is whether microchipping is painful. Fortunately, the procedure is very quick and similar to giving a vaccine. The chip is inserted with a small needle, and most pets tolerate it very well with little to no discomfort. It can be done during a routine visit, at the time of vaccines, or while your pet is under anesthesia for a spay or neuter procedure.
Is microchipping painful for my pet?
Microchipping is about as uncomfortable as a routine vaccination. Some pets may experience mild, temporary discomfort at the injection site, but the procedure is generally well-tolerated.
How long does a microchip last for my pet?
Microchips are designed to last for your pet’s entire lifetime. They do not require batteries, they do not need to be replaced, and they do not wear out over time. Once the chip is placed, it usually stays in position permanently. It is very rare for a microchip to move or come out.
Can a microchip be removed or fall out?
It is very rare for a microchip to move or fall out. When placed correctly, typically between the shoulder blades, it stays in place for life.
What information is stored on a pet’s microchip?
The microchip itself only stores a unique ID number. Your personal contact information is linked to that number in a secure registration database.
How do I update information on my pet’s microchip?
To update your contact information, you will need to contact the microchip registration company or update your details through their website or mobile app. It is important to keep your information current, especially after changes in address or phone number.
How can I check if my pet is already microchipped?
You can visit a veterinary clinic or animal shelter, where staff can use a universal scanner to check for a microchip. If one is detected, they can help look up the associated registration information.
Is microchipping safe for younger pets?
Yes, microchipping is safe for young pets. It is often recommended at the time of spaying or neutering to ensure your pet has permanent identification from an early age.
Do indoor pets need to be microchipped?
Many people assume that indoor pets do not need microchips, but we strongly recommend microchipping for every pet. Even indoor-only pets can escape through an open door, a broken screen, or during a stressful situation like a storm or move. Collars and tags are helpful, but they can fall off. A microchip is permanent and cannot be lost.
Can a microchip track my pet’s location?
No, microchips do not have GPS or tracking capabilities. They only store an ID number that links to your contact information in a registration database.
What is the process for scanning a pet’s microchip?
A universal scanner is passed over your pet’s body to detect the microchip. The scanner displays the ID number, which can then be used to look up the owner’s contact information in a database.
Where can I get my pet microchipped?
Microchipping is available at most veterinary clinics, as well as many animal shelters and rescue organizations.
Are there any risks associated with microchipping my pet?
Microchipping is considered very safe. Some pets may experience mild irritation at the injection site, but complications are rare.
Are there any privacy or security concerns with microchipping?
No, microchips do not store personal information. They only contain an ID number, and your contact details are kept securely within the registration database.
Can any vet or shelter scan my pet’s microchip?
If you are not sure whether your pet already has a microchip, we can easily check. Any veterinary hospital or shelter can scan your pet, and the process only takes a few seconds. If a chip is found, we can help you confirm that the registration information is correct.
Over the years, we have seen many situations where a microchip made the difference between heartbreak and a happy reunion. Pets without identification often cannot be traced back to their owners, but pets with microchips have a much higher chance of finding their way home.
At Markham Woods Animal Hospital, we believe microchipping is one of the simplest and most important steps you can take to protect your pet. If you have questions about microchipping or would like to schedule an appointment, please give us a call (407) 682-3233 or email [email protected]. We’re here to keep your pet healthy, happy, and thriving!