Imagine this: your beloved pet slips out the door, chases a squirrel, and suddenly, they’re lost. It’s every pet parent’s nightmare. Now, picture this scenario with a happy ending — someone finds your pet, takes them to a vet or shelter, scans their microchip, and just like that, you’re reunited. That’s the magic of microchipping! Read on to learn the importance of microchipping and how to keep your pet’s microchip updated.
Why Microchipping Matters
Collars and tags are great, but they can fall off or get lost. A microchip, on the other hand, is a tiny, permanent form of identification that stays with your pet for life. If your furry friend ever goes missing, a quick scan at a vet clinic or animal shelter can pull up your contact information and get them back home where they belong.
Microchipped pets are more than twice as likely to be reunited with their owners compared to those without one. That’s a statistic worth paying attention to!
Is Microchipping Safe?
Absolutely! Microchips are about the size of a grain of rice and are inserted just under the skin, usually between the shoulder blades. The procedure is quick — about the same as getting a shot — and most pets barely notice it.
Side effects? They’re extremely rare. Most pets have no issues at all, and the benefits far outweigh any minimal risk. If you’re concerned, your vet can walk you through the process and answer any questions.
Microchip Registration: The Step You Can’t Skip
Here’s a common mistake: people get their pets microchipped but never register the chip. A microchip without up-to-date contact info is basically useless. Don’t let that be you!
After your pet gets microchipped, you need to register it with the appropriate database — this is how someone who finds your pet will be able to contact you. The AAHA has an extensive list of Participating Microchipping and Pet Recovery Services. If you’re not sure where your pet’s microchip is registered, don’t worry! You can search the Universal Pet Microchip Lookup Tool to check. You will need your pet’s microchip number, so be sure to ask your veterinarian to scan it and provide the number to you.
How to Keep Your Pet’s Microchip Updated
As someone who volunteers at an animal shelter, I can’t tell you how many times we’ve scanned a microchipped pet, only to find that the owner’s phone number is disconnected or their address is outdated. It’s heartbreaking!
If you move, change phone numbers, or update your email address, take a few minutes to update your pet’s microchip registration. Most registries allow you to do this online or over the phone.
Pro tip: Set a reminder on your phone to check your pet’s microchip info once a year — maybe on their adoption anniversary or birthday.
Not sure if your pet’s microchip info is up to date? Here’s how to check:
Visit any vet or local shelter. They can scan your pet’s microchip for free and give you the chip number. There are also public-use scanners available — one at the Brentwood Library and one outside of the Williamson County Animal Center — available to use any time.
Look up the chip number. Use the AAHA Universal Microchip Lookup Tool to find out which company it’s registered with.
Contact the registry. Call or go online to verify and update your information.
A Small Step To Keep Your Pet Safe
Microchipping is quick, affordable, and could be the difference between a lost pet staying lost and a happy reunion. But don’t stop at just getting the chip, make sure your contact info is always up to date.
So, take a few minutes today to check your pet’s microchip information. It’s a simple step that can make all the difference. And if your pet isn’t microchipped yet? WCAC offers microchips for $15 or call your vet to schedule an appointment — you’ll be glad you did!
Have you ever been reunited with a lost pet thanks to a microchip? Let us know!
