Microchipping entails using a small device as a form of identification and tracking for a pet. It is usually no smaller than a grain of rice and can be inserted under the skin of a dog.
It is inserted using a needle, often between the shoulder blades. Dogs can exhibit some signs of discomfort during the process, but most can tolerate the pain well.
If your pet refuses to keep still during insertion, distract it with treats such as plums. Can dogs eat plums? Dogs can eat their flesh but not the pits which can be toxic for them.
Let’s explore some pros and cons of chipping your dog and how it can benefit pet owners and dogs.
How Effective Is Microchipping for Finding Lost Animals?
Of the pet dogs that are reunited with their owners, 24% of pet dogs were found using microchipping. The chip reveals information about the dog, including its owner’s contact information in case it is lost.
Some might ask when to microchip a puppy. You can microchip a dog as early as eight weeks old, but even older dogs can have a microchip installed.
Where to get your dog microchipped? You can get your dog microchipped at veterinary offices, pet shelters, and pounds. They will charge a small fee for the service plus the cost of the microchip.
More than 10 million pets are lost or stolen in the United States every year. Of these, at least 920,000 are euthanized annually. |
Common Concerns About Microchips
Many think microchips might present privacy issues such as tracking movement and location, however, this is inaccurate as microchips are not GPS devices and cannot track your pet’s movement, location, or behavior.
Twenty-four percent of microchipped dogs were found using the technology. |
What is an Advantage of a Microchip in a Dog?
Even if your pet loses its collar or any physical form of identification, there is still a way to identify it. Since the microchip is embedded under the skin, it cannot be misplaced no matter what your pet does.
Pet Owners Only Have To Do It Once
Many pet owners ask how long does a chip last in a dog. Once a microchip is inserted, it does not need to be replaced. It is permanent and can last for throughout your dog’s life.
However, owners need to update their contact information if they move to a new location or change their number. In most cases, they only need to contact the microchip company and provide their new contact details.
Microchipping Improves Pet Safety
Is microchipping your dog safe?
Yes! Microchipping increases your pet’s safety and the chance that you’ll be reunited if you’re separated from it.
In the end, it’s all about helping your pet find its way back to you in case it gets lost. Veterinarians and animal welfare organizations recommend using microchips to humanely and efficiently help lost pets find their way home.
