What Are the Benefits of a Pet Microchip?

May 12, 2023

A pet microchip is a small electronic device implanted under a pet's skin. It contains a unique identification number that can be used to identify the pet if it ever becomes lost or stolen. In recent years, microchipping has become increasingly popular to protect pets and ensure they can be reunited with their owners if they become separated.

Here are some of the benefits of having your pet microchipped:

  • Easier to Find Lost Pets - One of the most obvious benefits of microchipping is that finding a lost pet is much easier. If a pet becomes separated from its owner, a microchip can quickly and easily identify the animal and reunite them with its owner. This is especially useful for pets with no collar or tags, as the microchip can still identify them.
  • More Reliable Than Collars and Tags - Collars and tags are often the first lines of defense for keeping pets safe, but they can be easily removed or lost. Conversely, microchips are embedded in the animal's skin and cannot be removed or lost, making them much more reliable than collars and tags.
veterinarian microchipping beagle
  • Quick and Easy to Install - Microchipping is relatively quick and easy. The chip is injected under the pet's skin using a syringe, typically taking just a few minutes. The process is painless and requires no anesthesia, making it a safe and convenient way to protect your pet.
  • Cost-Effective Protection - Microchipping is a cost-effective way to protect your pet. The initial cost of the chip is relatively low, and there are usually no additional costs associated with it. This makes microchipping an excellent option for pet owners who want to keep their pets safe without breaking the bank.

Pet microchipping is a safe and cost-effective way to protect your pet. It makes finding lost pets more manageable and reliable than collars and tags. Microchipping is also a quick and easy process that does not require any anesthesia. For these reasons, microchipping is a great way to ensure that your pet will always be able to find its way home.

How Long Do Pet Microchips Last?

The short answer is that pet microchips are designed to last your pet's lifetime. The chip is made of biocompatible material designed to last for many years. The chip is also very small, measuring only about the size of a grain of rice, so that it won't cause your pet any discomfort.

The chip also contains a unique identification number linked to your contact information. This information is stored in a database and can be accessed by veterinarians and animal shelters if your pet is ever found. The chip's information can be updated anytime you move or change your contact information.

It is vital to keep your pet's microchip information up to date so that you can be reunited with your pet if it is ever lost or stolen. Having your pet scanned for a microchip at least once a year would be best to ensure the chip still functions correctly.

Veterinarian microchipping puppy in clinic

Ready to learn more about microchipping?

Is Microchipping a Pet Painful?

Microchipping is not painful for pets. The process is similar to receiving a vaccination. A microchip is injected beneath the pet's skin, usually between the shoulder blades. The microchip is about the size of a grain of rice, and the needle used to inject it is very thin and sharp, so the process is relatively quick and painless.

The microchip is designed to be safe for pets and does not cause discomfort or pain. The microchip is made of biocompatible material and contains a unique identification number that a scanner can read. This number is linked to a pet's owner's contact information, which can be accessed if the pet is lost or stolen.

veterinarian doing implantation of identification microchip to red tabby cat

Does Pet Microchipping Require a Healing Process?

The microchip is inserted using a hypodermic needle, which is very thin and causes minimal discomfort. The microchip is made of a biocompatible material, meaning it won't cause any irritation or inflammation. The process is so quick and easy that most animals don't even realize it's happening.

That being said, it's important to keep an eye on your pet after the procedure. While the microchip itself won't cause discomfort or healing, the area where the chip was inserted may be slightly tender for a few days. It's also essential to ensure the area is kept clean and dry to prevent infection.

It's also important to note that the microchip is not a GPS-tracking device. It's simply a tiny piece of technology that stores a unique identification number. This number can identify and track your pet if lost or stolen. You must register your pet's microchip with a pet recovery service to take advantage of this feature.

Why Choose Advanced Care Veterinary Hospital for Microchipping?

If you are ready to get your cat or dog microchipped, the team at Advanced Care Veterinary Hospital is here to help. We would be happy to provide pet microchipping services and ensure that your pet is registered with a pet recovery database. Contact us to get started, or schedule your pet microchipping appointment today.