Microchipping for Pets
Every year, unclaimed lost pets end up in shelters and are not reunited with their owners. Even though no technology is 100 percent effective, microchipping is one of the best ways to ensure your pet will make it back home to you if they get lost. Though you might now want to consider the thought of your furry friend getting lost, it’s important to have in place to get them safely home if they do.
How does microchipping help my pet if they’re lost?
If your pet is lost and returned to a veterinary office or shelter, one of the first things they’ll do is check their tags and see if they have a microchip. They’ll use a scanner across typical areas where microchips are implanted to identify if they have one. The unique serial number will be connected to the animal registry used to document your contact information if one is detected. It’s important to keep this up-to-date if you move or change your phone number so your pet can be returned to you as soon as possible.
How is the microchip implanted?
Microchips are implanted with the help of a needle. A needle with the rice-grain-sized microchip is placed under your pet’s skin, typically near their shoulder blades. It usually takes a few seconds for the process to be complete. It’s common to have your pet microchipped while they’re undergoing another procedure, like spay and neutering. If you’d like to schedule their microchipping during their next procedure, please contact us at 204.488.1843.
Besides microchips, is there anything else I can do to protect my pet?
Microchipping is one part of your pet’s identification. Though it is a permanent option, it’s important to pair it with others. For example, consider getting your pet a collar with tags. The tags should include up-to-date contact information. Though it’s difficult to plan for the expected, it’s important to do whatever you can to give your pet the best chance of coming home to you.