Should I Microchip my Dog or Cat?

Microchipping involves the implantation of a tiny chip, about the size of a grain of rice, under your pet’s skin. This microchip contains a unique identification number that can be scanned and matched to a database containing your information as pet owner, so that if your pet gets lost, you have a much higher chance of being reunited with your furry best friend.

In a quick nutshell: You bring your pet to Revel Vet, and we use a very small needle to put the chip under your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. It’s like giving them an invisible superhero badge!

Once the chip is in, you register your information in a pet recovery database. That’s like adding your name and contact details to the pet chip’s phonebook. So, if your pet ever gets lost, someone can scan them with a special machine, and boom! They find your contact info and call you to get your buddy back home safe and sound.

Microchipping is a very smart idea for both cats and dogs, so if you haven’t done it yet, this blog will help you understand how easy it is to help protect your furry friend!

How Do Pet Microchips Work?

Here are a few fun facts about microchips to help you understand how they work:

• Pet microchipping is a simple and relatively painless procedure that can be performed by a Revel Veterinarian in just a few minutes! It may be a quick moment of discomfort to your pet, similar to receiving a vaccination, but it is short-lived. 
• The microchip is typically injected under the loose skin between the shoulder blades of the animal using a syringe-like device.
• Each microchip carries a unique code that serves as permanent identification for the pet. This number cannot be altered or removed, providing a reliable and tamper-proof way to identify the pet and its owner.
• After the microchip is implanted, the pet owner must register their contact information, along with the pet’s details, in a pet recovery database. This information is crucial for reuniting lost pets with their owners. We will help walk you through every step of this process at Revel Vet, so you do not feel overwhelmed!
• In the scary event that your pet goes missing, animal shelters, veterinarians, and rescue organizations use handheld microchip scanners to read the unique ID number when a lost or stray pet is found. The scanner emits a low radio frequency that activates the microchip and displays the ID number on the screen.
• Pet microchips even have international standards, so that pets lost across borders can be returned to their owners. 
• Microchips are designed to last for the pet’s lifetime. They do not require any maintenance or replacement under normal circumstances. 
• Pet microchips are not GPS trackers. They do not provide real-time location information, but instead, they rely on the pet being found and scanned for identification purposes.
• Microchipping is not a replacement for traditional ID tags. It is an important complement in case your pet’s collar is removed or falls off, but we always recommend that your pet still wear your contact information on their collar. 
• Microchipping is only effective if you as the pet owner keep your contact information up-to-date in the pet recovery database. If you move or change any of your information (such as your phone number), make sure to update it in the database to ensure a successful reunion in case your pet gets lost!

What is the Cost of Microchipping a Pet?

The cost of microchipping a pet can vary depending on several factors, but on average, typically costs between $50 to $100. This cost will, of course, vary depending on your visit, the type of microchip used, and whether or not your pet receives other services that day. 

When you book your appointment, just ask us and we can talk about a budget for your visit! Many pet owners find that the cost of microchipping is a worthwhile investment in ensuring the safety and proper identification of their beloved pets, especially considering the peace of mind it provides in case their pet ever goes missing.

Is Microchipping Cats a Thing?

Yes, you can absolutely microchip cats! Microchipping cats is similar to microchipping dogs and involves the implantation of a small microchip under the cat’s skin, typically between the shoulder blades.

Microchipping cats can be especially important because cats are known to roam and explore their surroundings. If a cat gets lost or accidentally wanders away from home, a microchip can greatly increase the chances of being reunited with their owner.

At What Age Should I Microchip?

In general, we recommend microchipping puppies and kittens as early as possible, ideally between 8 to 12 weeks of age. 

Microchipping young animals is safe, effective, and helps ensure that the pet is properly identified from an early stage if they were to ever become lost.

If you adopt or acquire a pet that is already past the recommended age for microchipping, don’t worry; you can still get them microchipped at any time during their life. It’s never too late to provide the identification and safety benefits of microchipping for your pet.

Always consult with your Revel Veterinarian to determine the best time for microchipping your specific pet, taking into account their health, size, and other individual factors. 

How Do I Register My Pet’s Microchip?

When you leave your microchipping appointment, here is what you can expect next:

1. Get Information: We will provide you with a microchip registration form containing your pet’s microchip number, the microchip company’s contact information, and recommended pet recovery databases.
2. Visit the Database Website: You will visit the database website to begin the registration process. Look for the “Register” or “Enroll” section on their website.
3. Enter Your Contact Information: Fill out the required information, including your name, address, phone number, email, and other contact details. Some databases may also ask for additional information about your pet, such as their name, breed, age, and any medical conditions.
4. Enter the Microchip Number: Enter the unique microchip number we provided. Double-check the number to ensure accuracy, as mistakes in entering the microchip number could lead to identification issues later.
5. Pay Any Applicable Fees: Some pet recovery databases may charge a one-time registration fee or offer various membership plans. Be prepared to pay any applicable fees to complete the registration process.
6. Confirmation and Verification: After registering your pet’s microchip, you should receive a confirmation email or letter. Some databases may require you to verify your email or contact information to ensure accuracy.
7. Keep Your Information Updated: It’s essential to keep your contact information up-to-date in the pet recovery database. If you move or change your phone number or email address, log in to the database and update your details promptly to ensure a successful reunion in case your pet gets lost.

Remember that registering your pet’s microchip in a pet recovery database is a crucial step in ensuring their safety and proper identification. If you’re unsure about the registration process or have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact our office at 480-701-8609 for assistance! 

And don’t forget, if you move or change emails or phone numbers, please update your information in the pet database! 

If you have any questions, please reach out. Our Revel Team is ready to help protect your pets.