Pet Microchipping

While it sounds like something from a scary science fiction novel about mind control in the future, pet microchipping is actually a current technology that has helped thousands of pet owners be reunited with their lost pets.

Let’s face facts: dogs and cats run away. And whether your pet is an escape artist or if he is just an outdoor animal, pet microchipping is a terrific idea. Even if you pet just loves to stare longingly out the window or screen door, a pet tracking microchip is a good idea. Pet microchips are safe and effective and most vets and shelters are outfitted with the necessary equipment to read the microchips.

So what is a pet microchip? Well, it is a small cylindrical capsule that holds a special number. The microchip number corresponds to a number in a database, and the database holds the information of the pet’s owner. It is this database that makes the microchip. Pet owners are actually paying for a way to find their lost pets.

Microchipping pets may seem a little difficult, but in reality it is easy. The microchip is injected under the animal’s skin between his shoulders. The process of pet microchipping is virtually painless for the pet and does not require anesthesia.

Microchips for pets are read by a special pet microchip scanner. Most vets, animal shelters and Humane Societies have these scanners. The scanners can read any type of microchip and provides the vet or technician with the number that corresponds to the database entry.

The prices of a pet microchip can vary from vet to vet. Generally, it is not very expensive, but some vets charge a little more depending on the area and the type of pet. Check with your vet to see how much they charge for pet microchipping. Updating my pet’s microchip is easy; generally, you just need to contact the vet or microchip company.

The debates for pet microchips are overwhelming. As it is an almost painless procedure, many owners feel it is benign. The controversy on pet microchips begins with the incompatibility of certain microchips with certain scanners. Newer chips can be read by any scanner as they send out a higher frequency transmission. Aside from the price factor, there is little reason to avoid pet microchipping. The benefits far outweigh any negative factors in this simple preventative technique; one injection is all it takes to increase your chances to find your furry friend again!