Dog microchipping has become an essential part of responsible pet care in recent years. This simple procedure provides permanent identification for your furry friend, significantly increasing the chances of reunion if they ever become lost or stolen.
The process involves implanting a tiny electronic chip, about the size of a grain of rice, under your dog’s skin. When scanned at animal shelters or veterinary clinics, this chip reveals a unique identification number that can be used to access your contact information and bring your beloved pet back home.
An Intro to Dog Microchips
A dog microchip is a small electronic device approximately the size of a grain of rice that’s permanently implanted beneath a dog’s skin, typically between the shoulder blades. The dog microchip itself doesn’t contain any batteries or moving parts. Instead, it uses passive Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology that activates only when a special scanner passes over it. When activated, the dog microchip transmits a unique identification number that can be linked to the owner’s contact information in a pet recovery database.
Reasons You Need a Dog Microchip
- Permanent Identification: Unlike collars and tags that can break or fall off, dog microchips remain with your pet for life.
- Increased Chance of Reunion: Studies show microchipped pets are much more likely to be returned to their owners when lost.
- Simple and Affordable: The one-time procedure is relatively inexpensive compared to the heartbreak of losing a pet permanently.
- Legal Requirement: Many cities, counties, and countries now require pet microchipping.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your dog has a permanent form of identification provides comfort if they ever escape or get lost.
How do dog microchips work?
The RFID Technology Inside
Dog microchips utilize Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology that enables identification without requiring an internal power source. Each dog microchip contains a tiny integrated circuit and an antenna coil sealed within a biocompatible glass capsule. When a scanner passes over the microchip, it emits low-frequency radio waves that activate the chip. This momentary power allows the chip to transmit its unique identification number back to the scanner.
The Scanning Process
When a lost dog arrives at a veterinary clinic or animal shelter, staff members use a universal microchip scanner to check for identification. The scanner sends out radio waves that energize the passive microchip if one is present. The microchip responds by transmitting its unique 9-15 digit identification number to the scanner’s display screen. This entire process takes just seconds and causes no discomfort to the animal during scanning.
Database Registration and Lookup
The true power of a dog microchip lies in the registration database that links the identification number to the owner’s contact information. After scanning reveals a microchip number, shelter staff contact the appropriate microchip registry associated with the brand you have chosen. Registry representatives then access the secure database to retrieve the owner’s contact details. This system works 24/7, allowing for rapid reunification even during nights and weekends.
Information Storage and Retrieval
Contrary to common misconception, the microchip itself doesn’t store your personal information or your dog’s medical records. It contains only a unique identification number that functions as a key to access your contact information in a secure database. Pet owners must register their contact details with the microchip company and keep this information current whenever phone numbers or addresses change. Some modern microchip manufacturers also allow owners to store additional information like medical conditions or medication needs.
Temperature Sensing Capabilities
Some advanced dog microchips now incorporate temperature-sensing capabilities alongside identification functions. These enhanced microchips can measure the dog’s subcutaneous temperature when scanned with compatible readers. Veterinarians can use this feature during routine exams to obtain temperature readings without the stress of rectal thermometers. This technology provides an additional health monitoring benefit beyond the primary identification purpose of standard microchips.
Is it painful for dogs to get microchipped?
No, the microchipping procedure is not significantly painful for most dogs. The process involves using a slightly larger needle than those used for routine vaccinations, but the implantation itself takes only seconds to complete. Many dogs show little to no reaction during the procedure, which is similar to receiving a routine vaccination. Veterinarians often compare the sensation to a quick pinch, and no anesthesia is typically required, making it a simple addition to a regular vet visit.
How to Prepare for Dog Microchip Implantation
- Schedule with a Professional: Arrange the procedure with a licensed veterinarian or certified technician at a veterinary clinic or animal shelter.
- Research Microchip Brands: Ask your veterinarian about different microchip brands and their associated registry services.
- Gather Personal Information: Have your contact details ready for registration, including alternative contacts.
- Plan for a Low-Stress Visit: If your dog gets anxious at the vet, discuss stress-reduction techniques beforehand.
- Understand Aftercare: While minimal, knowing what to expect after implantation helps ensure a smooth experience.
Are dog microchips safe?
Yes, dog microchips are generally very safe for most pets. The devices are biocompatible, meaning they’re designed to be compatible with living tissue and typically don’t cause allergic reactions or immune responses. Complications from microchipping are exceedingly rare, occurring in less than 0.01% of cases according to most veterinary studies. The microchips are also passive, containing no battery or power source, and only activate momentarily when scanned with a universal scanner, making them safe for long-term implantation throughout your dog’s life.
When Should You Not Get a Dog Microchip
According to veterinary professionals, there are few absolute contraindications for microchipping dogs. Most veterinarians recommend consulting with your primary vet before proceeding if your dog has certain health conditions. The decision should ultimately be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account your individual dog’s health status, age, and specific circumstances.
4 Common Contraindications
- Active Infection at Implantation Site: Dogs with skin infections or inflammation between the shoulder blades should wait until the condition resolves before microchipping.
- Bleeding Disorders: Dogs with diagnosed bleeding disorders or on anticoagulant medications may need special considerations before undergoing the procedure.
- Previous Adverse Reaction: If a dog has previously experienced a rare adverse reaction to a microchip, veterinarians might recommend alternatives.
- Very Young Puppies: While puppies can be microchipped as young as 8 weeks, some extremely small or premature puppies might benefit from waiting until they’re slightly larger.
Alternatives to Dog Microchips
While microchips provide the most reliable form of permanent identification for dogs, there are several alternatives that pet owners might consider based on their specific needs and concerns. These options can work alongside microchips for added security or serve as temporary solutions until microchipping can be performed.
- GPS Tracking Collars: These devices attach to your dog’s collar and provide real-time location tracking through a smartphone app, though they require battery charging and can be lost if the collar comes off.
- Identification Tags and Embroidered Collars: Traditional identification methods include customized tags or collars with your contact information, which are visible but can break or become illegible over time.
- Tattoos: Some owners opt for tattoos in the ear or inner thigh with identification numbers, though these can fade and aren’t uniformly checked by shelters.
- DNA Registration: Services that store your dog’s DNA profile can help prove ownership in disputes but don’t help locate lost pets.
- Digital Pet Profiles: Online profiles with photos and information linked to QR codes on tags can provide detailed information when scanned.
What Happens During Dog Microchip Implantation
- Patient Preparation: The veterinarian or technician confirms your dog’s identity and examines the implantation site, typically the loose skin between the shoulder blades, to ensure it’s clean and healthy.
- Scanner Check: Before implantation, the microchip is scanned to verify it’s functioning properly and to record the unique identification number.
- Loading the Applicator: The sterile, pre-packaged microchip comes in a needle applicator that’s prepared for immediate use to maintain sterility.
- Positioning the Dog: The dog is gently restrained in a standing or lying position to access the implantation site comfortably.
- Implantation: The applicator needle is inserted beneath the skin, and the microchip is injected with a quick, smooth motion that takes only seconds to complete.
- Verification Scan: After implantation, the veterinarian scans the area to confirm the microchip is in place and functioning correctly.
- Registration Initiation: The veterinary staff collects your contact information to register the microchip in the appropriate database, linking your dog’s ID number to your personal details.
- Aftercare Instructions: You’ll receive information about monitoring the implantation site, though complications are rare and aftercare is typically minimal.
Conclusion
Microchipping your dog is a simple, safe, and effective way to provide permanent identification that significantly increases the chances of a happy reunion if your pet ever goes missing. The procedure is quick, relatively painless, and offers lifelong protection unlike any other identification method available.
We encourage you to schedule an appointment with us at West Hills Veterinary Centre + Animal Clinic to discuss microchipping for your beloved pet. For more pet care tips and to join our community of responsible pet owners, follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Don’t forget to check out our reviews on Yelp and NextDoor to see why so many pet parents trust us with their furry family members.
