What is a microchip?
Microchips are small radio-frequency identification chips, about the size of a grain of rice. For dogs and cats, they are usually placed on the back, between the shoulder blades and beneath the skin.
The implant process is minimally invasive. The chip is implanted with a needle, and no surgery is required. We know that you may wonder, 'Is microchipping painful?', and we are glad to share that it may only cause slight discomfort in some cases.
Once your cat has been microchipped, you register the chip's serial number and your pet's information with the company that produced the chip. By matching your cat's information with the serial number of the microchip, if your pet is found, they can be traced back to you.
What to Expect During the Microchipping Process
When it's time to insert the microchip, the vet will compare the number on the transponder to the number on the packaging to ensure accuracy. They will then proceed with the insertion using the following steps:
- The needle with the microchip will be prepared using the decided method of delivery, and your pet dog will be positioned for the injection.
- Your pet dog should be either standing or lying on their stomach for insertion which typically occurs between the shoulder blades.
- The vet will pull up the loose skin between the shoulders and swiftly insert the needle into the skin.
- At this time, the microchip will be implanted into your dog's skin.
- Your vet will then scan the microchip to ensure that it is reading correctly.
What information does a microchip store?
Microchips will contain identification numbers, which can be scanned by staff at a veterinary clinic and allow them to access. Your contact information if your pet is found and brought to them. Unfortunately, the microchip cannot act as a GPS tracker like most people think.
How does microchipping for animals work?
Before microchipping their pets, pet owners often ask, "How does microchipping a dog or cat work"?
Microchips are read using a special scanner, which most veterinarians and shelters have. In the past, different brands of chips required different scanners, but modern universal scanners can read all modern types of chips, regardless of their brand. When the scanner is passed over the pet's back and sides, the microchip will transmit its identification number to the scanner.
The national database will then need to be contacted. They will then contact the owner of the pet and take the next steps to reunite them. Microchips are not only valuable for returning lost cats and dogs but are also very helpful when it comes to proving ownership.
Is microchipping safe for animals
Preventive and protective care like microchipping is the best way to help your pet live a long and healthy life. If you have any questions about other preventive care services, contact your vet. While we understand the concerns that may be present when your beloved companion receives an injection of any type, we can assure you that the benefits of microchipping far outweigh the risks. The chance of a negative reaction to a microchip is very low as is the chance that the chip cannot be read. This is why we perform a test scan of every microchip as soon as it has been implanted.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes only and Holland Veterinary Hospitals does not provide microchipping services as of the time this was written.