If you’re a pet owner, you know that keeping your furry friend safe is of the utmost importance. That’s why microchipping your dog is such a good idea – it provides an extra level of security in case your pet ever gets lost or stolen. This article will explore why you should microchip your dog, including how it keeps them safe, what the process entails, and more.
What Is A Pet Microchip?
A microchip is a tiny computer chip that contains information about your pet. The chip is about the size of a grain of rice, and the vet injects it under the skin, usually between the shoulder blades. The microchip does not have a battery or any other power source, so it will last forever.
When someone finds a lost pet, a vet can use a special scanner to read the microchip and get the pet’s information. They can then contact the owner and reunite them with their beloved animal friend. Microchipping is quick, painless, and relatively inexpensive, making it an essential part of responsible pet ownership.
When Did It Become Popularized?
While the technology for microchips in pets has been around since the 1980s, it was in the late 1990s and early 2000s that pet microchipping became widely popularized. This is due to several factors, including lowered costs and improved ease of implantation.
Veterinary clinics began offering microchipping as a routine procedure during annual check-ups, and animal shelters required all adopted pets to get microchips before going to their new homes. With the rise of social media, lost pet databases also became easily accessible online, making it easier for owners to search for their missing furry friends. Today, microchipping remains one of the most effective ways to reunite lost pets with their families.
Is It Safe?
Microchips are popular among pet owners to keep track of their furry friends in case they ever happen to run away. While having your pet chipped may seem harmless enough, there are some risks to consider before deciding to microchip your pet.
There is always a risk associated with any surgery, no matter how minor. For example, there is a slight chance that your pet could have an allergic reaction to the chip, or the needle used to inject it. In rare cases, the chip can migrate under the skin after injection, which can cause discomfort and require another trip to the vet to have it removed or relocated.
Additionally, while most chips currently on the market are safe, there is always the potential for future chips to pose a health risk to your pet.
Before deciding to microchip your pet, be sure to weigh the risks and benefits carefully. Pet microchips can be a helpful way to keep track of your furry friend, but it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks involved before deciding to have your pet chipped.
Reasons You Should Microchip Your Dog
Now that we’ve covered what a pet microchip is and some potential risks let’s discuss the many benefits of microchipping your dog.
Can Help Reunite You With Your Dog If They Get Lost
Nothing is worse than feeling panic and dread when you realize your beloved pet is lost. Unfortunately, it’s a common occurrence – according to the ASPCA, 1 in 3 pets will go missing at some point in their lifetime. However, a simple solution can significantly increase the chances of being reunited with your furry friend: getting them microchipped. A microchip, about the size of a grain of rice, can be implanted under your pet’s skin and contains important information such as your contact details and any relevant medical history.
If your pet goes missing, animal shelters and veterinarians have scanners that can read the chip and quickly bring them back home. It may seem like a small step, but microchipping could make all the difference in reuniting you with your lost pet.
Microchips Are Affordable, And You Can Get Them At Any Time
For many pet owners, microchipping their beloved furry friends is often considered an afterthought. However, it is crucial to keep your pet safe and allow them to find their way back home if they go missing. Microchipping has significantly increased the likelihood of reuniting lost pets with their owners. You can also do it at almost any age and stage of your pet’s life.
And contrary to popular belief, microchipping does not have to break the bank. There are low-cost options available, and some veterinary clinics even offer discounts or specials on microchipping during certain times of the year. So don’t delay – ensure yourselves and your pets a little peace of mind by getting them microchipped today.
Contain Vital Information About Your Dog
Microchips contain important contact information for you as the pet owner and can also hold valuable medical information about your dog’s health. This includes any medical conditions or allergies that may require immediate attention in an emergency, current vaccinations, and medication details. Furthermore, some pet microchips are even equipped with GPS tracking capabilities, allowing you to pinpoint your dog’s exact location if they go missing. Having this vital information easily accessible can make all the difference when it comes to ensuring the safety and well-being of your pet.
Microchips Are Permanent And Can’t Be Removed Or Lost
Unlike traditional identification methods such as collars and tags, microchips are permanent and cannot be easily removed or lost. Especially for pets that may tend to slip out of their collar or scratch at their tags, microchipping offers peace of mind in knowing that their identification will always be with them. As a bonus, microchips can offer added protection against pet theft, as they cannot be removed or altered without proper identification.
So Will You Microchip Your Furry Friend?
In summary, microchipping your dog offers numerous benefits, including helping reunite lost pets with their owners, containing vital medical information, and being a permanent form of identification. And with affordable options readily available, there’s no excuse not to take this simple step in ensuring the safety and well-being of your beloved furry friend. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to microchip your pet and give them the best chance of coming home safely.