Have you considered microchipping your pet? We highly encourage you to do so at your earliest convenience. The microchip may be small, but it can profoundly affect your pet’s life. This article features a Forest Hill, MD veterinarian addressing various questions related to microchips.

A pet microchip is a small electronic device that is implanted under the skin, typically between the shoulder blades. It contains a unique identification number that can be read by a scanner to help reunite lost pets with their owners.

Microchips are radio-frequency identification (RFID) implants, commonly referred to as transponders, which are housed in very tiny containers, typically no larger than a single grain of rice.

Microchips neither transmit nor store data. (Regrettably, the chip will not deter your furry friend from pursuing squirrels or prevent Fluffy from toppling items off your desk.) Each chip contains a single piece of information: a unique ID number.

Microchips: Understanding How They Work

Microchips function as passive devices, meaning they remain inactive and do not transmit data until scanned. The scanner emits radio waves that prompt the chip to transmit the ID number back to the device. The identifying number subsequently appears on the digital display screen of the scanner.

Veterinarians and animal shelter officials use microchips to identify stray or lost pets and locate their owners. This straightforward and effective approach has reunited countless missing animals with their worried owners.

How Are Microchips Implanted?

Microchipping your pet is a simple process that takes just a few minutes. It is usually scheduled to coincide with spay/neuter surgery for convenience. Nonetheless, it is possible to arrange it independently as well.

The procedure is quick and easy. Your Forest Hill, MD veterinarian will use a hypodermic needle to insert the chip under your pet’s skin. That’s it!

Regarding recovery time, a tasty treat, a nap, and a few extra forehead scratches should suffice. Of course, Fido and Fluffy would be thrilled with a new toy and some additional cuddles!

How Does My Pet’s Microchip Link to Me?

Remember the ID number we mentioned earlier? This number is linked to your information in the chip manufacturer’s database. This is how you and your pet stay connected.

Once your pet is microchipped, it is essential to update the chipmaker’s database with your information. Other than that, you will not need to do anything with the chip itself.

For additional details, please contact your veterinarian in Forest Hill, MD.

What Happens After My Pet Gets Microchipped?

Microchipping typically involves a single procedure. There is no need for you to interact with the actual chip. Should you change your email address or phone number, be sure to update this information accordingly. If your contact information is incorrect or outdated, the chip will not serve its purpose.

It is also a wise decision to have your Forest Hill, MD vet verify the chip during your pet’s routine checkup. This is merely to confirm that it remains in its proper position and has not malfunctioned.

Reasons to Microchip Your Pet

Microchips have facilitated the joyful reunions of countless missing pets with their heartbroken owners, sometimes years after the animal disappeared! This represents an important aspect of being a responsible pet owner. Never assume that your pet will always stay close to home. Even the most affectionate and devoted pet can escape or get lost. In fact, one out of every three pets will go missing at some point in their lives. Unfortunately, very few non-microchipped pets find their way back home. 

Researchers at Ohio State University made the following discovery: 

• Dogs with microchips had a significantly higher chance of being reunited with their owners compared to unchipped strays (52.2% vs. 21.9%). 

• Microchipped cats had a significantly higher likelihood of returning home compared to unchipped cats, with rates of 38.5% versus 1.8%. 

Is it Possible to Use a Microchip to Locate My Pet On My Own?

No. Microchips are not currently compatible with GPS tracking, and while not entirely out of the question, this is unlikely to change in the near future. GPS systems require a power source to function. Although we might eventually find a power source inspired by purrs and tail wags, modern technology has not reached that level yet.

Some products, including pet doors and bowls, can connect with microchips. For instance, there are doors designed to allow Fido to come and go from the yard while ensuring that adorable yet unwanted raccoon stays outside. If Fluffy and Mittens have distinct feeding preferences, you can buy dishes that will only unlock for the suitable furball.

Should I Invest in a GPS Tag for My Pet?

GPS tags represent remarkable advancements! Prior to making a purchase, conduct thorough research. There are a lot of options available with notable differences in subscription pricing, range, technology, battery life, and water resistance. Some use Wi-Fi or mobile towers, whereas others run on satellites.

What Is the Lifespan of a Pet Microchip?

Microchips generally last around 25 years. That exceeds the typical lifespan of dogs and cats significantly. In contrast, birds tend to have longer lifespans. If your bird is microchipped, there may come a time when you need to replace Polly’s chip.

Are Pet Microchips Beneficial?

Absolutely! A microchip is an affordable, one-time investment that has the potential to save your pet’s life! Having one and not needing it is undoubtedly better than needing one and not having it!

Is it Possible to Microchip a Pet at Home?

Absolutely not! This procedure must be performed by a qualified Forest Hill, MD veterinarian. Trying to do it on your own could be incredibly dangerous. By putting your pet at risk, you may also face legal consequences. Under certain conditions, this may be considered animal abuse, which is a felony offense.

Is Microchipping My Pet a Risky Decision?

Microchipping is very safe. There is a slight possibility that your pet may experience minor discomfort and/or temporary itching. This typically resolves itself within a day or two. If the condition continues, please consult your veterinarian in Forest Hill, MD immediately. 

Are Smartphones Capable of Scanning Microchips?

Smartphones are capable of doing many things, but there are no applications available for reading chips—at least not yet. Considering that microchips utilize a unique technology that is inherently incompatible with smartphone technology, it is unlikely that this will change.

Can a Magnet Interfere with a Pet’s Microchip?

No. Microchips lack magnetic fields, which means they do not respond to magnets.

What Are the Benefits of Microchips?

Microchips offer an added layer of protection for both you and your pet. They provide numerous benefits that tags lack. One aspect to consider is their permanence. They can’t be removed, like collars and tags, and your pet won’t be able to chew or bite them.

Are ID Tags Still Important?

Absolutely! Tags are the easiest method for others to connect with you and your pet. In several locations, they are mandated by law.

Schedule a Microchipping Appointment with Your Veterinarian in Forest Hill, MD

Ready to chip your pet? Schedule an appointment with our veterinary clinic in Forest Hill, MD. We are happy to help!