Microchipping Your Pet: What You Need to Know

3 min read

As pet owners, our top priority is keeping our furry friends safe. But even with the best care, pets can slip out of the yard, dash out the front door, or get lost during a trip. Collars and tags help, but they can fall off or become unreadable. That’s where microchipping comes in—a simple, permanent way to improve your chances of being reunited with your pet.

In this post, we’ll break down what microchipping is, how it works, why it’s so important, and what steps you should take after your pet is chipped to make sure it actually helps bring them home.

What is a Microchip and How Does it Work?

A microchip is a tiny electronic device—about the size of a grain of rice—that’s implanted under your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. It contains a unique identification number that’s linked to your contact information in a secure database.

When a lost pet is found, animal shelters, veterinarians, and some police departments can use a special scanner to read the microchip’s number and contact the registry. From there, they can reach out to you so you can be reunited with your pet.

📌 Note: A microchip is not a GPS tracker—it won’t tell you your pet’s current location. It only works if your pet is scanned after being found.

Why Microchipping Matters

Microchipped pets are significantly more likely to be reunited with their owners. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA):

• Dogs with microchips are more than twice as likely to be returned to their owners.

• Cats with microchips are more than 20 times as likely to make it back home.

  
  

That’s because unlike collars and tags, microchips can’t be lost, broken, or removed. They provide a permanent link between you and your pet, for life.

How to Get Your Pet Microchipped

It’s a quick and relatively painless process. Here’s what to expect:

1. Schedule with Your Vet or Local ShelterMost veterinarians, animal shelters, and rescue organizations offer microchipping. It’s often done during a routine visit or while your pet is under anesthesia for spaying/neutering.

   🔍 Tip: Many shelters and rescue groups offer discounted or even free microchipping events throughout the year.

2. The Implant ProcessThe chip is injected under the skin with a needle—similar to a vaccination. No surgery or stitches are required, and the process typically takes just a few seconds.

3. Register the Chip ImmediatelyThis is the most important step! The chip is only useful if your contact information is in the registry. You’ll receive instructions from your vet or the chip manufacturer on how to register online or by mail.

   
   

Important Considerations

Before you leave the vet’s office, make sure you:

• Double-Check the Chip Number: Ask your vet to scan the chip after implantation to ensure it’s working.

• Keep Your Information Updated: If you move or change your phone number, update the registry immediately.

• Still Use a Collar & Tag: Microchips are a backup, not a replacement for visible ID.

Advantages of Microchipping

💵 Affordable – Usually $25–$60, with some shelters offering free events

⏱ Quick & Easy – The process takes just a few seconds

📍 Permanent ID – Stays with your pet for life🏠 Proven Success – Dramatically increases the chances of reunion