Pet Microchipping

10 million dogs and cats get lost every year, according to the American Humane Association. Don’t let your pet become just another statistic. To ensure you are reunited with your lost pet, it’s essential to microchip your animal. Dallas Highway Animal Hospital in Powder Springs looks at the facts about microchipping your pet.

microchipping

What Is a Microchip?

A microchip is a tiny electronic device. It’s about the size of a grain of rice.

How Does a Microchip Work?

Microchips are transponders that work when a microchip scanner is passed over them. The microchip emits a number. This number, stored in a national database, is matched to your contact information, such as your home address and phone number. Microchips do not act as homing beacons.

How Is Microchipping Done?

The microchip is injected into the skin of your pet, usually in between the shoulder blades. Your pet does not need anesthesia for this injection. You have to fill out some paperwork so that your contact information is matched to the number displayed by the microchip.

How Long Do Microchips Last?

Microchips have been known to last for the life of the pet. However, it is still possible for the microchip to stop working unexpectedly. That’s why we recommend having your pet’s microchip scanned at least once a year to make sure the chip is not only working but is still in the right place.

Do Microchips Move from the Injection Site?

Microchips can migrate from where they were injected. Because of this phenomenon, most shelters and vet clinics know to scan a stray animal’s whole body to search for a chip.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Side effects from being microchipped are very rare. A study by the British Small Animal Veterinary Association found only 391 cases of side effects from microchipping in four million pets. Common side effects include mild bleeding at the injection site, some swelling, baldness at the injection site, and possible infection. We will ensure your pet does not suffer from any of these symptoms when microchipped by our professional staff.

Do Microchips Replace the Need for ID Tags or Rabies Tags?

Microchips do not replace either method of identification. Depending on where you live, your pet (especially dogs) may be required to wear rabies tags at all times. Your pet’s medical information is usually not stored in microchips. Any form of ID is beneficial for keeping your pet safe.

Visit Us for Quality Pet Care from Our Vets in Powder Springs, GA

If you have further questions about the benefits of microchipping your pets and live in the Powder Springs area, contact us at Dallas Highway Animal Hospital today. Learn more about how we can provide your pet the care it needs to live a long and healthy life.