Is your pet microchipped yet? If not, we strongly recommend that you get this done as soon as possible. The microchip is small, yet it can have a significant impact on your pet’s life. A Hutchinson Island, FL veterinarian discusses microchips in this article.
What Is A Microchip, Exactly?
Microchips are extremely small, around the size of one grain of rice. They are technically radio-frequency identification (RFID) implants, or transponders, housed in very small containers.
Microchips do not transfer or store data. Each chip has only one piece of information: a unique identification number. This can be read with a specialized scanner.
Will A Magnet Erase A Pet’s Microchip?
No. Microchips do not use magnetism, so they are unaffected by magnets.
Why Should I Get My Pet A Microchip?
This is simply a basic component of proper pet ownership. Microchips have helped facilitate the joyful reunions of thousands, if not millions, of missing pets with their anxious owners, sometimes even years after the animal went missing! They act as an unseen safety net, connecting you to your beloved pet.
Don’t think your pet will never run away. The numbers here are sobering. In fact, one out of every three pets will go missing at some point in their lifetime. Unfortunately, only about 10% of unmicrochipped pets will ever return home.
Will My Pet Still Need To Wear ID Tags?
Absolutely! Tags remain the easiest way for others to identify you and your pet. Furthermore, they are legally required in a number of jurisdictions.
Chips also provide a few functions that tags do not. For one thing, they are permanent. They cannot be easily cut off or removed, like collars and tags, and your pet can not rip or chew them. Additionally, they are legally binding, and stand up in court.
How Do Pet Microchips Work?
Microchips are passive. They emit no data unless activated by the scanner. The scanner will send out radio waves, causing the chip to transmit the ID number back to the device. The ID number will then be displayed on the scanner screen.
How Are Pets Microchipped?
Having your pet microchipped is a straightforward process. It’ll only take a few minutes. It is frequently scheduled alongside spay/neuter surgery for convenience. However, it can be done on its own.
Your veterinarian will use a hypodermic needle to inject the chip under your pet’s skin, typically between the shoulder blades. That is all there is to it! There is no recovery time required. However, a special treat and perhaps a few extra forehead scritches might not be inappropriate.
What Happens After My Pet is Microchipped?
Do you remember the unique ID number we mentioned? That number corresponds to your information in the chip manufacturer’s database. Once your four-legged buddy has been microchipped, you must update your information in the chipmaker’s register. If you relocate or change your email address or phone number, remember to update this information. That chip will not work if your contact information is missing or out of date!
It’s also a good idea to have your veterinarian inspect the chip at your pet’s regular checkups, to confirm that it hasn’t slipped out of place or malfunctioned.
Where Can I Get My Pet Microchipped?
Nearly any animal clinic will perform the procedure. To find the best options—and maybe save yourself some money—try a Google search using terms like ‘discount vet near me.’ But if you are looking for a great veterinarian near Hutchinson Island, FL, give us a call!
Schedule A Microchipping Appointment With Your Hutchinson Island, FL Veterinarian
Do you want your pet microchipped? Make an appointment at our veterinarian clinic in Hutchinson Island, FL. We’re here to help! We provide great care and a range of services, including therapeutic laser for dogs and platelet-rich plasma therapy for dogs, dog regenerative medicine, and cat regenerative medicine.
