Getting your dog microchipped can increase the chances of finding them if they get lost. Our veterinarians in Los Angeles discuss the benefits of microchipping your dog.
What is a pet microchip?
Veterinarians and animal shelters have the ability to use microchips, which are small, radio-frequency identification (RFID) chips, to locate the owners of lost pets. These microchips are usually placed under the skin and are about the size of a grain of rice.
What can I expect from the microchipping procedure?
When you take your dog to the vet to get a microchip, they will first position your dog and then inject a needle preloaded with the microchip into your dog's body. This procedure can be carried out simultaneously with your pet's vaccination schedule.
Usually, the microchip will be placed in the subcutaneous tissue of your dog's spine, which is between their shoulder blades. To ensure accurate placement, your dog should either lie on their stomach or stand up. The veterinarian will gently lift some loose skin before inserting the needle and injecting the microchip. When the vet squeezes the applicator trigger, the microchip will be injected into the tissue.
The good news is that implanting a microchip in your dog is a simple process that does not require surgery. The chip will be placed just under the skin using a needle, so your dog will experience little discomfort. In fact, most dogs hardly react at all to having a microchip implanted.
Once the microchip is implanted, you must register the chip's serial number and your dog's information with the company that produced the chip. In case your dog gets lost, the microchip's serial number can be matched with your dog's information, which will help trace you as the pet owner.
Why not just get a collar and tag for my dog?
It's important to equip your furry friends with collars and identification tags to increase the chances of returning them to their owners if they get lost. Collars and tags are easy to read and contain the owner's contact information.
When creating a tag for your dog, make sure to include your name and phone number. However, tags can fall off and get lost, so it's wise to get your dog microchipped as well.
Microchipping is a permanent identification method that can help reunite you with your dog if they ever get lost. It's critical to keep your microchip registration information updated.
If you move or change your phone number, contact the microchip company to update your information. It's important to note that microchips are not a replacement for collars and tags.
A combination of both increases the chances of finding your lost dog and bringing them back home safely.
How do microchips for dogs work?
If your dog goes missing and is found, the vet or rescue organization will use a special scanner to read the microchip. It's important to note that microchip scanners are universal and can read all modern chips, regardless of their brand.
When the scanner is passed over the dog's back and sides, the microchip will transmit its unique identification number to the scanner.
The rescuer will then contact the national database to find out your phone number so that you can be notified that your dog has been found. Microchips can also be very helpful in case of theft, as they can provide proof of ownership.
Are there risks to microchipping my dog?
Many pet owners may be concerned about the safety and effectiveness of microchipping for their pets. They may worry about pain, allergic reactions, or the possibility of the microchip migrating internally.
However, it is important to note that microchipping has been used for many years and has been implanted in millions of pets without any incidents. The newer microchips have also been improved, making the likelihood of allergic reactions or rejection extremely rare.
Thanks to microchipping, dogs can be reunited with their families even after years of being separated from them. To ensure your canine friend's safety and increase the chances of their safe return in case they get lost.
It is recommended that you consult with your local veterinarian about microchipping your pet as soon as possible.