The journey of becoming a first-time pet owner is always an exciting one filled with joy and new experiences. Alongside the joy, however, you also have a responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of your pet. One fundamental aspect of responsible pet ownership is microchipping, which is a reliable method of pet identification.
Microchipping has long been a common practice among the pet ownership community due to its primary benefit: significantly enhancing the chances of reuniting owners with their pets if the latter become lost. However, there are still some misconceptions about how microchipping works and its role alongside traditional identification methods. Some people don’t realize, for example, that dog collars like custom Martingale collars and tags are still necessary even if they have their pets microchipped.
This guide from PrideBites aims to provide essential information about microchipping, from its benefits to common concerns you may have as a first-time pet owner. Let’s get into the finer details of microchipping and what it actually entails.
What is Microchipping?
Microchipping involves the insertion of a small, rice-sized microchip under your pet's skin. This tiny device contains a unique identification number that can be read by a microchip scanner. Unlike traditional ID tags that can fade, break, or get lost, a microchip provides a permanent means of identifying your pet throughout their lifetime.
When a scanner is passed over the microchip, it emits a radio frequency that activates the chip and displays the ID number. This number is then used to access your contact information from a national pet recovery database, which allows you to be reunited as quickly as possible if your pet is lost.
The Benefits of Microchipping
Microchipping offers several advantages over traditional ID tags. Firstly, it significantly increases the chances of your pet being returned to you if they become lost or stolen, compared to without getting microchipped.
Additionally, microchips cannot be easily removed or altered by someone who finds your pet. This provides them with a secure form of identification. Unlike collars and tags, which can fall off or be removed, the microchip remains a constant and reliable method of identification.
Does a Microchip Replace a Dog Tag?
Contrary to what some may believe, microchipping does not replace the need for a visible ID tag on your pet's collar. While a microchip provides permanent identification, a collar tag with your current contact information is essential for immediate identification by anyone who finds your pet. The combination of a visible ID tag and a microchip also ensures comprehensive identification and increases the likelihood of a quick reunion if your pet becomes lost.
How Microchipping Works
The process of microchipping is relatively simple and minimally invasive for your pet. During the procedure, your pet will be gently restrained to ensure their comfort and safety. Using a syringe-like device, the microchip will be injected under their skin, typically between the shoulder blades. Most pets experience only minor discomfort—similar to a routine vaccination—and do not require anesthesia.
Once it’s implanted, the veterinarian or trained technician will scan the area to confirm the microchip is in place and functioning correctly. This entire process usually takes just a few minutes and can be performed during a regular veterinary visit.
Microchip Registration
After implantation, you'll need to register your pet's microchip to ensure its effectiveness. This involves providing your contact details along with the microchip's unique ID number to a national pet recovery database. Once registered, your pet's ID number is linked to your contact information, allowing shelters, veterinary clinics, and animal control officers to contact you quickly if your pet is found. Take not that it’s essential to keep your contact information updated in the database, especially if you move or change phone numbers, to maximize the chances of a swift reunion.
Safety Concerns about Microchipping
Concerns about the safety and health impact of microchipping are still quite common among pet owners. It's important to note that microchips are made of biocompatible materials designed to be safe for pets of all sizes.
The risk of adverse reactions or complications from microchipping is minimal and comparable to other routine veterinary procedures. Microchips also don’t contain a power source and are inert until activated by a scanner. That means that there’s no risk of them emitting harmful radiation that will affect your pet.
What Should You Expect After Microchipping Your Pet?
After microchipping your pet, it's important to incorporate microchip maintenance into your routine pet care. During regular veterinary check-ups, ask your veterinarian to scan the microchip to ensure it remains functional and to detect any issues early on. Since microchipping isn’t a replacement for traditional tags, ensure your pet wears their collar with an updated ID tag at all times. Also, periodically check that the tag is securely attached and readable.
In the unfortunate event that your pet goes missing, contact local animal shelters and veterinary clinics immediately. They can scan for a microchip and use the ID number to identify your pet and contact you promptly.
Microchipping is a simple, yet invaluable method for pet owners seeking to safeguard their beloved companions from dangers present in their ordinary lives. For customized dog collars and other day-to-day pet essentials like wholesale dog beds and custom branded dog bandanas, check out PrideBites’ catalog. Start a design project with us today if it’s always been your dream to design pet products that other pet parents and their fur children will benefit from.