Every pet parent’s worst nightmare is a beloved dog or cat going missing. Whether it’s a bolt through the backyard gate, a slipped collar on a walk, or an unexpected dash out the front door, it can happen in seconds. Thankfully, there’s a simple, permanent way to improve the odds of being reunited with a lost pet: a microchip.
What Is a Microchip?
A microchip is a tiny device, about the size of a grain of rice, that is implanted just under your pet’s skin—typically between the shoulder blades. It contains a unique identification number that can be read with a microchip scanner.
This chip is not a GPS. It won’t track your pet’s location, but it will provide essential information if your pet is found and taken to a veterinary hospital, shelter, or animal control facility.
Why It Matters
- Collars and tags can come off. A microchip is a permanent form of ID that stays with your pet for life.
- It dramatically increases the chance of reunion. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, microchipped dogs are over twice as likely to be returned home, and microchipped cats are over 20 times more likely.
- Peace of mind. Knowing your pet has a way home, even if they’re not wearing a tag, provides comfort in the unexpected.
The Process Is Quick and Safe
Implanting a microchip is a quick and relatively painless procedure, similar to a routine vaccine. No anesthesia is required, and it can be done during a regular exam or while your pet is under anesthesia for spay/neuter or dental care.
One Important Step: Registration
A microchip is only useful if your contact information is registered and up-to-date. Be sure to:
- Register your pet’s microchip with the chip manufacturer or a universal pet recovery database.
- Update your information if you move or change phone numbers.
- Ask us to scan the chip during your pet’s annual visit to make sure it’s working properly.
We Can Help
At Eastern Animal Hospital, we strongly recommend microchipping as part of your pet’s preventive care plan. If your pet isn’t microchipped yet, or if you’re not sure whether their chip is registered, just ask: we’re happy to help.
Microchips save lives and reunite families. It’s a tiny chip with a huge impact.