Pet Microchipping: Permanent Identification for Dogs & Cats
Why Every Dog and Cat Should Be Microchipped at Whitworth Animal Clinic in Madison, AL
We understand your concern for the well-being and safety of your pet. Pet Microchipping takes away a lot of worry. Millions of dogs and cats become lost each year and tragically, there are many that are never reunited with their owners. A lot of them end up in shelters where they are either adopted to new homes or sometimes euthanized due to limits in space to house them for long. Identification such as collars and tags are essential but can come off or become damaged. Fortunately, technology has made it possible to implant pets with a microchip for permanent identification.
Pet Microchips: What Every Dog and Cat Owner Should Know
Microchips are tiny computer chips, about the size of a grain of rice. They are implanted with a syringe just under the skin, between the shoulder blades, making the process similar to that of getting an injection. There is little to no pain experienced. Most pets never even feel it. No sedation is required; however, the time your pet is spayed or neutered is an ideal time to have him microchipped.
Once your pet is microchipped, you will register your pet’s information into a national database. The registration captures owner information so rescuers know whom the pet belongs to and how to reach them. You can even add out of state contacts for extra protection.
If your pet is lost, contact the registration company immediately with the pet’s ID number. This will trigger fax or email alerts to veterinarians and rescue groups. If your pet is taken to a veterinary office or shelter, they will use a universal scanner to check for a microchip. Once the pet is scanned, the veterinarian is able to key the number into the database website and locate you, the rightful owner. Remember, if your pet returns home on his own, don’t forget to call back and advise the registration company.
- No GPS tracking: Microchips do not track location. They act as a digital ID card.
- Radio waves: When scanned by a shelter or vet, the scanner reads the unique ID code.
- Lifetime durability: The chip requires no battery and lasts for the pet’s entire life.
Pet Microchipping: Protect Your Pet If They Ever Get Lost
- Register the chip: Implantation is only step one; you must register your info with the provider.
- Keep data current: Update your phone number or address immediately if you move.
