Dogs get lost. It’s a simple fact of life. Whether they take a wrong turn after chasing a neighborhood cat and loose their way or they get separated from their owners following a major disaster, such as a hurricane, the reality is they don’t always come home. Often, the reason for this is they are found, but the owner cannot be located.
Here’s where a microchip can come in handy, even providing more valuable than tags. Yes, tags are important and they are even required by law in most cases. Tags, however, can come off, leaving it virtually impossible to match a dog with its owner.
The microchip trend isn’t a new one, but it’s one that’s gaining in popularity. One simple little procedure at a vet’s office is all it takes to ensure a dog can be matched with its owner for life.
Let’s take a look at some of the most common questions about microchips and their answers:
What is a microchip?
Microchips used for dogs are very small devices, roughly the size of a single piece of rice. They are encased in special glass. A technician or veterinarian will generally insert a microchip into the back of a dog’s neck using a special device.
How do they work?
A microchip used for animal identification will have its own special number that is put into a computer database. This number is used to keep track of information about the dog, its owner and its medical records. If the dog is lost and a scanner is used, that number will appear so the dog can be tracked to its owner.
How can shelters tell if a dog has a microchip?
It used to be that a microchip wasn’t common, but as this procedure becomes fairly normal, most shelters and animal control agencies check for microchips on each dog that is brought in. If a microchip is found, the shelter will check the database to track a dog’s owner.
What happens if I move?
All it generally takes to update the database with new information typically is a simple phone call. Instructions will come with the microchip on what to do to ensure information is kept up to date and accurate.
Where can a microchip be obtained?
Most vet’s offices can provide microchipping at a fairly reasonable price. Sometimes pet stores and shelters offer microchip clinics, too. These promotions generally include special pricing.
Do microchips have to be replaced?
Generally, no. Microchips typically last for the entire life of a dog that one has been implanted into.
Does putting a microchip into a dog hurt?
Not much more than a pinch, typically. It is much less painful to a dog than being separated from its owner for an extended period of time or even forever.
There are many compelling reasons to consider getting a dog microchipped. The fact of the matter is it is one of the best ways to ensure a lost dog can be found again. This very quick procedure can be all it takes to make sure man’s best friends stays that way for life.
Article by Kelly Marshall of Oh My Dog Supplies - Your online source for
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Microchips for Dogs
Microchips for Dogs
