Microchips: What You Need To Know

Tue, 05/23/2017 - 9:15am

Every two seconds a family companion is lost.

Microchips help get them home.

Microchips are an invaluable tool to recover our best friends when they wander off or get lost.

 

A microchip is a non-removable form of ID for your pet.

They’re approximately the size of a grain of rice, it contains a personal ID number that stays with your companion animal forever.

Microchips are not like a GPS, it’s a radio-frequency identification implant (RFID) that provides your pet with a permanent ID. 

Microchips are inserted under the skin by injection, much like a vaccine. It’s a safe and easy procedure.

A microchip will normally last the lifetime of your pet because it’s composed of bio-compatible materials that will not degenerate over time. 

Both cats and dogs can receive microchips. A recent study showed that less than 2% of cats without microchips were returned home. However, if the cat has a microchip the return to owner rate is 20 times higher. 

Microchips can be checked at shelters or veterinary offices by using a scanner.  

If you’re interested in getting a microchip for your best friend, talk to your local veterinary office or give The Camden Hospital for Animals a call at (207)-236-2311

 

Sources:
petpremium.com/pet-health-center/care/5-facts-about-microchipping
paws.org/library/pet-info/pet-care/microchip-facts
homeagain.com/microchipping-facts.html