Benefits of Microchipping Your Pets You Need To Know

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Protecting your pets comes with many responsibilities, and one of them is microchipping your pets to keep them safe at all times. As responsible pet owners, we strive to provide our beloved companions with the best care and safety. One critical aspect of pet safety is ensuring vets can identify and return them to us if they ever become lost or separated.

Microchipping Your Pets Keeps Your Pets Safe

Of course, we all love and cherish our pets and want to keep them from harm’s way as much as possible. But unfortunately, pets can become victims of kidnapping or become disoriented and lost. That’s why I always make an apt with my vet to ensure microchipping takes place.

Microchipping is a proven, effective method of pet identification that has reunited countless pets with their owners. Come along as we explore the benefits of microchipping your pets, how the technology works, and what to expect during the microchipping process.

What is Microchipping?

A microchip, in essence, is a small electronic device, roughly the size of a grain of rice, that contains a unique identification number for your pet. Microchipping your pets is a simple and quick process. First, using a hypodermic needle, they implant the chip just beneath the skin, typically between the shoulder blades.

Once implanted, a special scanner can detect and read the microchip, which displays the identification number and the owner’s contact information. Furthermore, this allows for a quick and efficient reunion between lost pets and their owners.

The Benefits of Microchipping Your Pets

1 – Permanent Identification

One of the primary benefits of microchipping is that it provides a permanent and tamper-proof form of identification for your pet. In addition, unlike collars and tags, which you can remove easily or become damaged or lost, microchips securely implant under the skin and typically last the pet’s lifetime.

2 – Increased Chance of Reunion

Typically, microchipped pets have a significantly higher chance of reuniting with their owners if lost or separated. For example, as the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) claims, microchipped dogs are returned to their owners 2.5 times more often than dogs without microchips. In comparison, microchipped cats are reunited with their owners 21 times more often than cats without microchips.

3 – Quick and Efficient Identification

Microchips provide a fast and accurate means of identifying lost pets, reducing the time they spend in shelters or at veterinary clinics. With a quick scan, the pet’s identification number allows the vet to contact the owner to track their pet easily.

4 – International Compatibility

The international compatibility of microchips ensures your pet’s ID and ability to track them globally. Furthermore, this simplifies traveling with your pet and increases their safety during international trips. This compatibility is particularly beneficial in countries that require microchipping as a part of their pet import regulations, such as the European Union.

When microchipping your pets, you’re complying with international travel requirements. But, more importantly, you ensure your pet’s swift return regardless of where you are globally. This global tracking capability provides an added layer of security and convenience for pet owners who frequently travel or relocate internationally.

5 – Peace of Mind When Microchipping Your Pets

Microchipping your pets offers peace of mind. This procedure allows you to find your pet quickly. And if they ever become lost or separated from you can have peace of mind knowing you can find them. Plus, this process is a reliable identification method to help ensure a speedy reunion.

How Microchips Work

Microchips function using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. Each microchip contains a small RFID transponder that stores the unique identification number. When a microchip scanner passes over the implant site, it emits a low-frequency radio signal that activates the microchip. The microchip then transmits the identification number back to the scanner, which displays the information on its screen.

It is important to note that microchips are not tracking devices and do not use GPS technology. They are passive devices, meaning they do not actively emit a signal or transmit information unless scanned by a compatible scanner.

As an alternative and tech-forward solution, many owners might prefer GPS collars, a device touted as the best wireless and invisible fence for dogs. GPS collars provide a non-invasive approach compared to microchipping. More importantly, allowing pet owners to keep their dogs safe and track their location at the touch of a button.

Moreover, if you feel uncertain or flat-out against putting a dog under anesthesia to install a microchip, this alternative would be the closest, considering effectiveness that is also risk-free.

The Microchipping Process

Microchipping your pet is relatively quick, simple, and safe. The procedure can be performed during a routine veterinary visit and does not require anesthesia. The microchip is implanted beneath the skin using a sterile hypodermic needle, similar to a vaccination. The process takes only a few seconds, and most pets experience minimal discomfort, similar to a slight pinch or pressure.

Once your vet implants the microchip, it is essential to register your pet’s unique identification number with a microchip registration database. This database will store your contact information, allowing them to contact you if your pet is found and scanned.

Many microchip companies offer online registration, making the process quick and straightforward. However, it is crucial to keep your contact information up to date with the registration database. Doing to will ensure a successful reunion if your pet becomes lost.

Post-Microchipping Care

After the microchipping procedure, there is minimal aftercare required. However, some pets may experience slight swelling or tenderness at the implantation site, which typically subsides within a few days. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any signs of infection or complications.

Having your veterinarian scan your pet’s microchip during routine check-ups is a good idea to ensure it is still functioning correctly and that your contact information is up to date.

Cost of Microchipping

The cost of microchipping your pet can vary depending on your location and the veterinary clinic or animal shelter performing the procedure. On average, microchipping costs between $25 and $50.

Furthermore, this one-time fee typically includes the microchip implantation and registration with a database. In addition, some animal shelters and rescue organizations may offer discounted or free microchipping services during special events or promotions.

The True Value of Microchipping Your Pets

Microchipping your pets is a responsible and effective way to ensure their safety and increase the likelihood of a swift reunion if they become lost or separated from you. In addition, with minimal discomfort and a relatively low cost, microchipping provides a permanent form of identification and peace of mind.

Moreover, it provides a better chance of reuniting with your beloved pet. Please speak with your veterinarian about microchipping your pet during your next visit and take an essential step toward safeguarding their well-being.

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