August 15 is Check the Chip Day. Each year, many lost pets are reunited with their owners due to their microchips. Our team has put together some more benefits to microchipping your pet!
How it works:
A tiny microchip is placed under the skin between the shoulder blades of the dog or cat (other animals such as horses, ferrets, and most mammals can be microchipped too). The microchip has an identification number on it, which can be read by a scanner. A veterinarian’s office or animal shelter can scan the chip to find out who owns the animal.
Brodheadsville Veterinary Clinic recommends that pets are microchipped as puppies or kittens and will often complete the procedure at the time of spaying or neutering when the pet is already anesthetized. A large needle is used to insert the microchip under the skin. The microchip will be registered and the pet owner’s contact information will be maintained with the tracking company.
Click here to learn more about our microchipping procedures.
Benefits of microchipping your pet
A microchip is the only permanent identification form that can reunite you with your beloved pet. Unlike collars and ID tags, which can break, or become worn and illegible, a microchip will last for the life of your pet. In addition, a microchip does not share personal information with anyone who finds your furry pal. When scanned, a chip emits only a unique identification number, which is then used for identifying your pet with the microchip company. Rather than giving the Good Samaritan your contact info, the microchip company notifies you personally that your missing pet has been found.
Other key benefits of microchipping include:
- It’s quick and easy — Microchip insertion is quick and easy—most pets don’t notice it any more than a vaccination.
- Sedation is not necessary — There is no need for sedation or general anesthesia for microchip insertion; however, we can microchip your pet during a surgical procedure to ensure the process is entirely pain-free.
- It’s really small — A microchip is tiny—about the size of a grain of rice. It won’t bother you or your pet, but it could provide the only link for a happy reunion.
- It can be smart — Microchip smart products can help your pet stick to their diet and prevent stray animals from coming in through your doggie door.
Many animals end up in shelters every year and, sadly, many are not reclaimed by their owners. Together, Brodheadsville Veterinary Clinic can provide another layer of protection to keep your pet safely with you. Have you microchipped your pet? If not, please contact us to schedule an appointment.