More than 10 million cats and dogs are estimated to be lost or stolen in the U.S every year. This is a frightening statistic for any loving pet owner. Whilst we do our best to keep our animals as safe as possible, even the most conscientious pet parent can inadvertently make a mistake that makes it possible for their pet to escape. Or perhaps you have a particularly cunning and tenacious creature who is determined to break free no matter what you do. Either way, becoming separated from our pets is a heart-wrenching event. Not knowing where they are or if they are safe can be too much to bear. Fortunately, there is a way of increasing the likelihood that they will be safely reunited with you – microchipping.

What is pet microchipping?

Pet microchipping is an increasingly common practice amongst owners who wish to take advantage of a more effective way of attaching their identification to their adored animal.

This simple process involves the insertion of a tiny microchip that is around the size of a grain of rice into your pet’s body, usually in the area between the shoulder blades. It takes just moments, is carried out by a trained professional, and provides a form of identification that lasts your pet a lifetime.

How does pet microchipping work?

Each microchip is linked to a specific provider. When you register a microchip, your personal contact details are taken. These are what will be used to contact you in the event that your pet is recovered. Your details are added to a secure microchip database that is managed and controlled by your chosen microchip provider and then assigned a unique reference number.

This reference number is then placed onto the microchip before it is implanted into your pet. When your missing pet is located, an animal professional such as a vet or shelter warden will scan him to see if he is microchipped. When the RFID scanner comes into close proximity to the microchip, the chip will emit the unique reference number stored on it, which can be read on the professional’s scanner along with details as to which provider your microchip is recorded with. The staff at your microchip provider will perform some security checks before releasing your contact details to the professionals so that they can contact you to arrange to reunite you with your pet.

What are the benefits of pet microchipping?

Microchipping is considered to be the safest and most effective way of ensuring that you are reunited with your pet. Some of the benefits associated with this practice include:
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• Microchipping is tamper-proof. Unlike collars and tags which can fall off or be removed, the microchip is permanently inserted into your pet’s body where it will remain forever.

• Microchipping has been shown to greatly increase the likelihood that your pet will be returned to you if lost. The return to owner rate for microchipped cats is around 38% compared to just 2% for non-chipped felines. Meanwhile, the return to owner rate for dogs is around 52%, compared to just 22% for non-microchipped canines.

• Microchipping lasts a lifetime. There are no working parts to be replaced or batteries to worry about.

• Microchipping can act as proof of ownership in the event that someone else tries to lay claim to your pet.

We are delighted to be able to offer microchipping here at our full service veterinary medical center in Live Oak, CA. Call us on (530) 491-4500 to schedule an appointment for your pet.