The benefits of microchipping is one of the most effective ways to ensure your pet can be identified and returned to you if they ever go missing. This quick and minimally invasive procedure provides a permanent form of identification that, when combined with other safety measures, significantly increases the chances of reuniting with a lost pet. Here’s everything you need to know about microchipping, from its function to its benefits and best practices.

What Is a Microchip and How Does It Work?

A microchip is a radio-frequency identification (RFID) transponder about the size of a grain of rice. It carries a unique identification number that is transmitted when scanned by a veterinarian or animal shelter. Unlike GPS devices, microchips have no batteries, moving parts, or power requirements, making them a low-maintenance and permanent solution.

The chip is typically injected under the loose skin between your pet’s shoulder blades, a procedure that’s no more invasive than a routine vaccination. It can be done quickly at your veterinarian’s office. Once implanted, the microchip is ready to help identify your pet for their lifetime.

How Microchips Help Reunite Pets

When a lost pet is scanned, the microchip transmits its unique ID number. This number is then used to access the pet owner’s contact information in the microchip’s registry database. Services like AKC Reunite, a member of the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) LookUp, can cross-check this information against hundreds of registries using the AAHA Universal Pet Microchip Lookup Tool.

Some registries go further by offering enhanced services. For example, AKC Reunite provides a Lost Pet Alert that broadcasts your pet’s information to a network of local veterinarians, shelters, and volunteers, increasing the chances of recovery. All of our puppies at Match Dot Pup are microchipped with AKC Reunite and included with the cost of the puppy.

Microchips Are Not GPS Devices

It’s important to understand that microchips and GPS devices serve different purposes. While GPS trackers can show your pet’s real-time location, they require batteries and can be lost along with collars or tags. In contrast, microchips provide a permanent form of identification but do not track your pet’s location. Together, they offer complementary solutions to locating a lost pet.

Can Microchips Move in the Body?

Although microchips are highly reliable, migration under the skin is a rare but possible occurrence. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), this is the most common complication reported, though it’s exceedingly rare—out of over four million animals studied, only 391 adverse reactions were noted.

Proper implantation, usually between the shoulder blades, minimizes this risk. Modern microchips are often designed with small barbs or other features to help them stay in place. Additionally, scanning shelters and veterinarians should always check the entire body of a pet if a chip isn’t immediately located.

Why Microchips Are Essential

Microchips remain the gold standard for ensuring lost pets are reunited with their owners. To make the most of this technology:

1. Update your contact information regularly in the registry database, especially after moving or changing phone numbers.
2. Keep your pet’s microchip number handy, ideally stored in your phone or another easily accessible location.
3. Check the microchip during annual vet visits to ensure it’s functioning properly and has not migrated.

Collars and ID Tags: An Extra Layer of Security

While microchips are invaluable, they are not immediately visible to the average person who might find your pet. A collar with an ID tag provides instant identification, allowing someone to contact you directly without the need for scanning. As a backup, you can write your phone number on the collar with a permanent marker.

What to Do if Your Pet Goes Missing

If your pet gets lost, take these steps immediately:

• Put up flyers in your neighborhood with a recent photo and your contact details.
• Use social media, including local lost-and-found pet groups on Facebook.
• Check Craigslist’s lost and found section frequently.
• Contact local rescues and shelters daily to see if your pet has been brought in.
• Call your microchip company to report your pet as missing and ensure your information is accurate.

Conclusion

The benefits of microchipping is a simple and effective way to protect your pet, offering a permanent solution for identification. While advancements in microchip technology have made them more reliable than ever, keeping your contact information current and combining microchips with collars and ID tags ensures the best chance of reuniting with your pet. By being proactive and prepared, you can provide peace of mind for yourself and security for your furry companion.