Microchipping 101 

Have you gotten your pet microchipped yet? If not, we strongly suggest that you get this done as soon as possible. While the microchip is very small, it can have a huge impact on your pet’s life. A local Pahrump, NV veterinarian answers some microchip questions in this article.

What Is A Microchip?

Microchips are very small, usually just about the size of a single grain of rice. They are technically radio-frequency identification (RFID) implants, or transponders, which are encased in very, very small containers.

Microchips do not transmit any information, nor do they store data. Every chip contains just one piece of information: a unique identification number. This can be read with a special scanner.

How Do Microchips Work?

Microchips are passive: they don’t emit any information until they are activated by the scanner. The scanner will give off radio waves, which prompt the chip to transmit the ID number back to the device. That ID number will then pop up on the scanner screen.

When Are Microchips Used?

Microchips are most often used by veterinarians and animal shelter staff to check lost pets, to see if they can find the owner. If the pet is chipped, this gives them a means to try and contact the owner.

How Do I Get My Pet Microchipped?

Getting your furry friend microchipped is a quick and easy process. This will only take a few minutes. It is often scheduled along with spay/neuter surgery, simply as a matter of convenience. However, it can also be done on its own.

Is Getting Microchipped Painful For Pets?

Not at all! Your vet will use a hypodermic needle to inject the chip. It will be placed beneath your furry buddy’s skin, typically between the shoulder blades. That’s all there is to it!

For Fido and Fluffy, it’s very much like getting a shot.

Will My Pet Need Recovery Time After Getting Microchipped?

No. There is no recovery time needed. However, a special treat and perhaps a few extra forehead scritches would not be inappropriate.

How Does The Microchip Connect My Pet To Me?

Remember that unique ID number we mentioned? That number is associated with your records in the chip manufacturer’s database. Once your four-legged pal has been microchipped, you’ll need to fill out your records in the chipmaker’s registry. Ask your vet for more information. 

What Do I Do After My Pet Has Been Microchipped?

Microchipping is, for the most part, a one-and-done procedure. However, you will need to remember to update this information if you move or change your email address or phone number. That chip won’t work if your contact information is missing or outdated! 

It’s also not a bad idea to have your vet check the chip during your pet’s regular appointments. This is just to make sure that it hasn’t slipped out of place or malfunctioned.

Can You Track Your Pet With A Microchip?

No. Microchips are not compatible with GPS tracking, and it’s not likely (though not impossible) that they will be in the future. The reason for this is simple. GPS systems need some sort of power to work. Obviously, installing a battery in Fido and Fluffy isn’t a viable option. While we may some day find a power source that runs on purrs and tail wags, we’re not quite there yet technology-wise.

It is worth mentioning that there are products that can be linked to microchips, such as pet doors and bowls. This can help Fido come in and out of the yard at will through a doggy door, while keeping that raccoon out. Or, if Fluffy and Mittens need different foods, you can get them bowls that only open for the right kitty. 

Should I Get My Pet A GPS Tag?

GPS tags are a great invention! Just do plenty of research before buying. There are quite a few different products available. These have various options for things like subscription costs, range, technology used, battery life, and water resistance. For instance, some work on Wi-Fi or through cell towers, while others utilize satellites.

How Long Do Pet Microchips Last?

Currently, microchips last about 25 years. That’s well beyond the lifespan of many pets. Birds, however, do live longer than that. If you happen to have a bird that is microchipped, you may at some point need to replace Polly’s chip.

Are Pet Microchips Worth It?

That would be a resounding yes from us. The microchip is a small, one-time expense, but it may someday save your pet’s life! This is definitely a case of it being better to have something and not need it, than to need it and not have it.

Can You Microchip Your Pet At Home?

No, absolutely not. This is a medical procedure that can only safely be done by a trained veterinary care professional. Attempting to do so yourself could go very, very badly. Not only could you injure your pet, it’s actually illegal in many places. You could end up with legal action taken against you. In some areas, this may even qualify as animal abuse, which is a felony in some places.

Is There Any Risk Involved In Getting My Pet Microchipped?

Microchipping is an extremely safe procedure. In fact, it barely qualifies as a procedure. There is a small chance that your pet may experience some minor swelling and/or irritation. Normally, this goes away in about a day or so. Of course, if the issue persists, you would want to immediately get in touch with your veterinarian. However, that would be very, very rare.

What Are The Benefits Of Microchips?

Microchips act as an invisible safety net, connecting you and your furry pal. They offer a few features that tags do not. For one thing, they are permanent. They cannot easily be cut off or removed, as collars and tags can, and your pet won’t rip it or chew it. 

They are also very easy to keep updated. Just log in to your account with the manufacturer to change your information as needed. Plus, they hold up in a court of law. 

Will My Pet Still Need ID Tags? 

Absolutely! Tags are still the easiest way for someone to connect you and your pet. Plus, they are required by law in many places. 

Can Microchips Be Scanned With Smartphones? 

Unfortunately, no.  Smartphones can do many things, but there are no apps that will read chips. Given the fact that microchips use different technology, it’s very unlikely that this will ever change.

Can A Magnet Erase A Pet Microchip?

No. Microchips do not use magnetism, so they are unaffected by magnets.

Why Should I Get My Pet Microchipped? 

This really is just a basic part of good pet ownership. Don’t assume that your pet will never run away. Even the most loving and loyal pet can be lost or stolen. In fact, as many as one in three pets will get lost at some point in their lives! Unfortunately, only about ten percent of pets that are not microchipped will ever go home again. Microchips can make a huge difference here. They have facilitated the joyful reunions of thousands—perhaps millions—of missing pets with their worried owners, sometimes years after the pet went missing!

Make A Microchipping Appointment With Your Pahrump, NV Veterinarian

Do you need to have your pet microchipped? Schedule an appointment today at your Pahrump, NV veterinary clinic. We’re here to help!