Have you chipped your pet? If not, we strongly advise you to schedule this as soon as possible. Although the microchip is small, it can have a huge impact on your pet’s life. In this article, a veterinarian from Orlando, FL answers several microchip-related queries.

What Is A Pet Microchip?

Microchips are radio-frequency identification (RFID) implants, also known as transponders, that are inserted in very small containers, typically no larger than a single grain of rice.

Microchips do not send or store data. (Unfortunately, the chip won’t keep your pooch from chasing squirrels or Fluffy from knocking things off your desk.) Every chip has a single piece of information: a unique identification number. This is readable with a contemporary scanner.

Microchips: How Do These Devices Work?

Microchips are passive devices, so they do not transfer data unless and until they are activated by the scanner. The scanner delivers radio waves, causing the chip to broadcast the ID number back to the device. The identification number will then appear on the scanner’s digital display screen.

Veterinarians and animal shelter staff routinely use microchips to identify stray pets and locate their owners. This simple yet effective approach has helped thousands, if not millions, of missing animals return home to their concerned owners.

What Is the Microchipping Process Like?

Microchipping your pet is a quick and straightforward procedure that just takes a few minutes. It is usually arranged alongside spay/neuter surgery for convenience. However, it is possible to complete it on one’s own.

The process is quick and easy. Your Orlando, FL veterinarian will insert the chip beneath your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades, using a hypodermic needle. That’s all there is to it!

As far as recovery time, a special treat, a nap, and some forehead scritches should suffice. Of course, Fido and Fluffy would not object to a new toy, and perhaps some extra cuddles, either! 

How Does My Pet’s Microchip Connect to Me?

Remember the ID number we mentioned earlier? That number is associated with your information in the chip manufacturer’s database. This is how you and your pet have an invisible connection. 

After your pet has been microchipped, you must update your information in the chipmaker’s database. However, you won’t need to do anything with the chip itself. 

For more information, contact your veterinarian.

What Happens Once My Pet Is Microchipped?

Microchipping is typically a one-time process. You will not have to interact with the real chip. However, if you move or alter your email address or phone number, please update this information. If your contact information is incorrect or outdated, the chip will be useless!

Having your veterinarian inspect the chip during your pet’s routine checkup is also a good idea. This is only to ensure that it has not fallen out of place or failed.

Why Should I Microchip My Pet?

Microchips have facilitated the joyful reunions of hundreds, if not millions, of missing pets with their distressed owners, often years after the animal went missing! This is a critical component of good pet ownership. Don’t assume that your pet will never run away. Even the most devoted and faithful pet might be lost or stolen. Actually, one out of every three pets will go missing at some point during their lives! Unfortunately, only approximately 10% of unmicrochipped pets ever return home. Research done by Ohio State University discovered the following:

• Compared to stray dogs without microchips, microchipped dogs had a significantly higher rate of being returned to their owners (52.2% vs. 21.9%).
• Microchipped cats had a significantly higher chance of returning home compared to unchipped cats (38.5% vs. 1.8%).

Can A Microchip Be Used To Locate My Pet?

No. Microchips are currently incompatible with GPS tracking and are unlikely (but not impossible) to become so in the future. This is because GPS systems need power to function. Clearly, putting batteries in Fido and Fluffy is not an option. While we may someday discover a power source that runs on purrs and tail wags, technology has not yet advanced to that degree.

It is crucial to understand that certain products, such as pet doors and bowls, may be linked to microchips. These doors, for example, allow Fido to enter and exit the yard through a doggy door while keeping the raccoon out. If Fluffy and Mittens have distinct feeding preferences, you can buy dishes that only open for the correct furball.

Do I Have To Get a GPS Tag for my pet?

GPS tags are fantastic inventions! Before buying, do your homework. There are many different products accessible. They vary quite a bit on things like subscription pricing, range, technology, battery life, and water resistance. Some use Wi-Fi or mobile towers, while others use satellites.

How Long Do Pet Microchips Last?

Microchips currently have a lifespan of around 25 years. That far exceeds the lifespan of dogs and cats. Birds, on the other hand, live significantly longer lifetimes. If your bird is microchipped, you may need to replace Polly’s chip at some point.

Are Pet Microchips Worthwhile?

Yes, yes, and yes. A microchip is a low-cost, one-time investment that could one day save your pet’s life! Having one and not needing it is definitely better than needing one and not having it.

Can You Microchip Your Pet At Home?

No, absolutely not! This is a medical procedure that should only be performed by a qualified veterinary practitioner. Trying to do it on your own could go disastrously wrong. Not only will you endanger your pet, but you could face legal penalties. In some cases, this could be considered animal mistreatment, which is a felony charge. In this case, the rewards are not even close to being greater than the risks.

Is It Risky To Microchip My Pet?

Microchipping is exceptionally safe. There is a small chance that Your pet may have some edema and/or itchiness. This usually goes away in a day or two. Of course, if the condition persists, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. However, that is very, very unlikely.

What Are The Advantages Of Microchips?

Microchips act as an unseen safety net for you and your pet. They provide a few advantages that tags do not. First and foremost, they are permanent. They are not as easily removed as collars and tags, and your pet will not rip or bite on them.

They are also easy to follow. To update your records, simply log in to your manufacturer account and make any necessary changes. They are also admissible in court. This might be a game changer in theft cases.

Are Identification Tags Still Necessary?

Absolutely! Tags are still the simplest way for someone to connect you and your pet. They are also needed by legislation in numerous locations.

Can Smartphones Scan Microchips?

Sadly, no. Smartphones can handle a wide range of tasks, but there are no apps for reading chips. Given that microchips use a unique technology that is fundamentally incompatible with smartphone technology, this is unlikely to change.

Can A Magnet Remove a Pet’s Microchip?

No. Microchips do not contain magnetic fields.

Schedule A Microchipping Appointment With Your Orlando, FL Veterinarian

Is it necessary to microchip your pet? Make an appointment with a Orlando, FL, veterinary practice. We’re glad to assist!