Collars, harnesses, and tags may come off or be removed easily. Similarly, the text on these items can become faded over time leading to them being unreadable. To ensure our furry friends are safe and secure for a longer period of time, we should think about microchipping! But what is microchipping exactly? And how does it work?
A microchip is a revolutionary radio-frequency identification transponder as tiny as a grain of rice, containing an incomparable ID number easily scanned by vets or shelters. No power source, battery, or moving parts; simply let your vet inject the chip beneath your pup’s skin, and you’re all set! The device is designed to last for the lifetime of your pup, so you don’t need to worry about recharging it either.
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Should You Microchip Your Dog?
You should consider microchipping your dog, as it provides several benefits. Microchips are tiny implanted capsules that contain identification tags, which can be scanned by animal shelters and veterinarians to help with quick and accurate identification of your pets if they become lost or stolen.
Microchipping is the ideal way to give your pet a higher chance of being returned home if they ever wander off or are taken, for example. Unlike collars, which can be easily removed, and tags that may fade over time, microchips remain permanent.
Benefits Of Microchipping Your Dog
Microchipping your pup is the ideal way to ensure their safety and well-being. Besides giving you peace of mind, there are many other benefits associated with these devices.
From a stress-free installation process to lifetime protection for them, microchips provide an array of advantages that can’t be overlooked. Here are just a few.
ID That Cannot Be Tampered With
Unlike a collar and tags, which can be removed or switched out, the chip is implanted under your dog’s skin and cannot be tampered. This makes it much harder for someone to steal or adopt your pup without your knowledge.
For example, if you were ever to lose your pup and someone else attempted to take advantage of the reward for finding it, they wouldn’t be able to substitute a microchip to get the prize.
Painless Procedure
Microchipping is a relatively quick and painless procedure for your dog. It is done with a needle that injects the chip just under the skin between your dog’s shoulder blades. Their fur also helps to cushion the area where the injection is made.
It is done using a special injection that inserts the chip just under their skin, similar to when you get vaccines at the vet. Your dog won’t feel much pain during the process as the chip is very small and thin.
They Don’t Need Replacing
Microchips are engineered with durability, lasting a long time without needing replacement. This is due to their robust construction and ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions. Microchips are usually made from durable materials like silicon, making them more damage-resistant than traditional circuits.
Unlike traditional pet tags, microchips don’t need replacing every few years. Once it is in place, your dog will have the same chip for the rest of its life, so you don’t need to worry about updating or renewing the information.
Personal Information Is Safe
When you register your dog’s microchip, it stores your name, address, and phone number in an online database. If someone finds it, they can contact you directly with the details. You don’t need to worry about anyone else seeing or accessing your personal information, as only authorized personnel can access the data.
How Does Microchipping Work?
Microchipping is a procedure that only takes a few minutes and doesn’t require anesthesia, although your vet may opt to give your dog a mild sedative or anesthetic if desired.
The microchip is implanted just beneath the skin’s surface with a hypodermic needle, much like receiving a vaccine shot. Once it’s in place, the chip cannot move around and will stay there for the life of your pet. It never needs to be recharged or replaced.
When someone finds your lost pet, they can take it to any animal shelter or veterinarian and have the pet scanned. The scanner will pick up the microchip identification number, which is linked to your contact information in a registry. That way, you’ll be contacted and reunited with your dog.
What Are the Costs Involved In Microchipping?
Spending only approximately $50 on your pet’s microchip is a small price for peace of mind in case it’s lost without its collar and tags. Moreover, there are no annual fees associated with the injection procedure and registration. It truly is a one-time cost!
With this tiny investment, you can rest assured that if something unfortunate happens and your dog goes missing, it will be much easier to locate quickly, so you’ll have it home safe again.
Are Microchips The Same As GPS Tracking Devices?
Contrary to popular belief, microchips are not the same as GPS systems. A microchip is a tiny computer chip that contains an ID number (not a location) and can be detected with a scanner. GPS tracking devices attach to the collar and use satellite signals to track your dog’s whereabouts in real time. They are not as reliable as microchips, however, and require monthly subscription fees.
Microchipping is an invaluable way to ensure your dog can find its way home in case of wandering. Not only does it provide a permanent form of identification, but also keeps contact info accessible if the pet goes astray. Compared to GPS tracking devices, microchips are more cost-effective and give consistent peace of mind that your pet will always find its way back.
In Conclusion: What Is Microchipping?
Microchipping is a simple, cost-effective way to ensure your pup has a permanent ID. Invest in a one-time chip today for your furry friend and provide yourself peace of mind if it ever gets lost. Not only will it help it come home faster, but also guarantee safety no matter where life takes it. Don’t delay. Get your pet maximum security by chipping your pup now. It’s the best decision for both of you!
So, what’s got you considering microchipping your pet? Let us know in the comments below!