Microchipping is a safe, permanent way to identify your pet in case he or she becomes lost. A microchip, which is a tiny device about the size and shape of a grain of rice, is placed just under the loose skin at the back of the neck. When a lost dog or cat without an ID tag is found, a veterinarian or veterinary technician will use a handheld microchip scanner to check for a chip. If the pet has one, it will transmit its ID number to the scanner via a low-frequency radio wave. The veterinary hospital or shelter then calls the chip manufacturer, retrieves the pet owner’s contact information, and calls the owner.
Even the most responsible pet owners can’t always guarantee their pet won’t get lost. A leash could break or slip out of your hand, a pet could push through a screen door or window, or a contractor or friend might accidentally leave a door or gate open.
We recommend using a microchip in combination with a collar and ID tag to identify your pet. While an ID tag is a reliable method of identification, pets with tags containing current contact information are more likely to avoid ending up in shelters and tend to return home faster. However, collars and ID tags can be removed or lost. A microchip offers a more permanent solution, significantly increasing the chances of your pet being identified and returned to you.
