What are pet ID microchips?

Pet ID microchips report the pet's identification and are small computer chips, typically about the size of a grain of rice, that are implanted under a pet's skin between the shoulder blades. The microchip contains a unique identification number that corresponds to the owner's contact information stored in a database maintained by the microchip manufacturer. If a lost pet is found and taken to a shelter or veterinarian's office, a microchip scanner can read the implanted ID number and allow the staff to look up the owner's information to facilitate reunification.

How are microchips implanted?

Implanting a microchip is a quick and simple process that typically only takes a few seconds to complete. The vet will use a sterile needle to insert the microchip just under the skin. Most pets do not feel much pain from the insertion itself, though some may feel mild discomfort for a short time afterwards. No sutures are needed as the small puncture wound heals on its own within a day or two. Once implanted, the microchip remains in place for the pet's lifetime, providing permanent ID.

Updating contact information is important

While the Pet ID Microchips itself stays with the pet forever, it's crucial for owners to keep their contact details up to date with the microchip registry. If contact information has changed since registration, owners need to login to their registry account online or call customer service to update addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses. This ensures shelters and vets can reach the owner quickly if their lost pet ends up in their care. It only takes a few minutes to update records but can make all the difference in reuniting a lost pet with its family.

Microchipping helps reunite lost pets

According to the American Humane Association, over 10 million companion animals are lost or stolen in the U.S. each year. Less than 5 percent of lost dogs and 2 percent of lost cats without identification make it back home. However, studies show microchipped pets have a 95 percent success rate of returning home if they become lost. When shelters or vets scan a stray animal, the microchip identification can be immediately looked up to find the owner's current contact info on file with the registry. This allows prompt notification so lost pets don't have to spend unnecessary time in a shelter facility. Microchips have helped reunite countless pets with their families after being separated, giving anxious owners peace of mind.

Benefits beyond just lost pets

While microchips most directly help with identifying lost animals, they provide benefits even for pets who aren't lost. If injured pets are brought to an emergency vet or animal hospital, staff can scan for a microchip and use the ID number to look up owner contact details on file instead of treating the pet as a stray. This allows veterinarians to quickly contact owners about their injured pet's condition and treatment options. Microchips even help shelters identify owned pets brought in as strays so the facility doesn't have to hold them during the mandatory wait period before putting up for adoption. The permanent ID ensures pets can be promptly returned if they get out of the home unexpectedly.

Limitations and concerns to address

While microchipping is extremely helpful, there are some limitations pet owners need to be aware of. First, the microchip itself doesn't actually track or locate the pet's whereabouts - it just provides permanent identification once scanned. Pets still need collars and tags as well in case they lose a collar but a Good Samaritan finds them. Second, microchips require a working scanner to read the ID number, so owners must ensure lost pets are brought to a vet or shelter where scanning can occur. Lastly, chips only work if registration information is kept up-to-date. Owners who move need to update addresses and contact details or the microchip benefits are lost. Addressing these limitations helps maximize the lasting identification benefits of microchipping.

Cost of microchipping

The upfront cost of microchipping ranges from $15-$40 depending on the clinic or service provider. However, when compared to the cost of owner advertising and potential boarding fees if a lost pet ends up in a shelter, microchipping pays for itself in many ways. It also provides peace of mind knowing permanent ID lowers the chances a lost pet won't be able to be reunited if preventable. While an extra cost, it's an affordable way to greatly increase the likelihood a pet will be returned home safely if separation occurs down the road.

Pet ID microchips are a simple, permanent, and highly effective identification solution for companion animals. Providing pets with microchips gives them the best chance to be safely returned if lost or injured. It's a relatively low-cost investment that can give both pet owners and their furry family members lifelong reunification protection.

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