Yep, you heard us right; June is National Microchipping Month! While we never like to think of our beloved pets getting lost, it is SO important to have ways to help identify them in the event that it does happen. Microchipping your fur baby is a simple and permanent way to help give you peace of mind that they are always accounted for!
Tell Me More About Microchipping!
A microchip is a tiny device (usually about the size of a grain of rice) that is inserted under a pet’s skin. A microchip consists of a computer chip, some electronics, and a capsule to enclose them. Once it’s under the skin, if a handheld scanner (using radiofrequency) activates it, the chip emits a code that is then displayed on the scanner. The code is linked to the pet’s owner in the microchip company’s system. This includes contact information that can then be used to communicate to the pets owners. The microchip does not need a power source (such as a battery) as it is activated when read by a microchip scanner. Who knew technology could be so much fun in the pet world?
Well, How Does A Microchip Get Implanted?
The process of inserting a microchip involves the use of a needle that is a smidge bigger than the one used to give vaccines. Usually, most implants occur with an already scheduled procedure when the fur baby planning to be under anesthesia.
How much does a microchip cost?
Best news of the day folks – the actual microchip itself usually only costs on average $40! Small price to pay with a lifetime of peace of mind, if you ask us!
I've Heard A Microchip Can Be Used To Track My Pet. Is This True?
There is a common misconception that a microchip allows your pet to be tracked in real time and can access a location if they are lost. This is NOT the case, unfortunately. The microchip emits a code that is unique to the owner only when it is scanned by a microchip scanner – that’s all it does!
You've Almost Sold Me, But What About Any Drawbacks?
As with most things, microchipping isn’t a fool-proof solution. Sometimes, a lost pet is found by someone who doesn’t know a thing about microchips or doesn’t have access to the almighty microchip scanner. Sometimes, no one thinks to scan the chip or it has migrated from the spot where they are placed between the shoulder blades and the person scanning the pet can’t locate it. Sometimes, the pet owner hasn’t kept their contact information up-to-date and, even though the lost pet is scanned, it is a dead end. For more specific, in-depth concerns it is best to consult a veterinarian.
If I Want To Move Forward With Getting My Pet Microchipped, What Do I Do?
Contact your trusted veterinarian! If you’re local to the NC area, feel free to reach out to our team – our lovely ladies at the front desk would be more than happy to chat with you!
We hope all of this info has helped in your quest for more knowledge regarding microchipping! Stay tuned for our next new blog post in July, it’ll be HOT off the press!
