A microchip is a reliable way to ensure you and your lost dog are reunited sooner. A small, inexpensive procedure, microchipping is offered at vet clinics, shelters and animal welfare organizations.
Identification
A microchip is a mini computer chip the size of a grain of rice. The tiny chip is injected into your dog, usually between his shoulders, as an identification measure. The chip contains a unique number that is stored in a database and is readable by a scanner or wand. Microchips are becoming a popular way to identify lost dogs and effectively return them to their owners.
Function
Microchipping is recommended for all dogs. You want to be prepared in case your dog ever wanders off or is lost. In the U.S. only 14 percent of lost dogs are reunited with their owners and less than half of all lost dogs have any identification. With a simple procedure, a microchip could help you reunite with your furry friend.
Process
Shelters, veterinarians and pet welfare organizations around the U.S can do the microchip procedure. An injection is made between the shoulder blades and the chip is implanted under the skin. The process is quick and painless and can be compared to a routine shot.
Cost
Getting a microchip is not an expensive procedure. Most animal welfare organizations offer day clinics where you can bring your dog to and get the microchip implanted at a discounted rate. On average, the microchip will cost between $30-$50 for the implant and an additional $20 to register your information. Registering your information is an important step that should not be overlooked. Adding your current contact info will ensure that you will be reunited with your dog faster.
Controversy
When microchips were first introduced in the market, the manufacturers used their own database and scanners. Many dogs that were implanted with a microchip could not be found because the scanner the animal control used was not compatible with the implanted chip. More and more, shelters, vets and animal welfare organizations are using scanners that are able to read all different brands of microchips. However, there is still not a single database that your pet and information can be registered.
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