What is a microchip?

A microchip is a tiny chip about the size of a grain of rice that is placed under the skin of your pet using a large needle and syringe. The implantation process takes about 15 seconds to complete. The chip is placed under the skin between the shoulder blades. It is strongly recommended that you go to a veterinarian clinic to have the chip placed to avoid any complications. Each microchip is assigned a unique number. This number is linked with your personal information such as your name, address, phone number(s), e-mail address, etc. Should your pet ever get lost someone could scan your pet using a special scanning device (most veterinary clinics and humane societies have them, shown in the picture below) and your pet’s specific number will be displayed. This number can then be searched on a database and all of your information will be available for you to be then contacted. It is important to understand that microchips are not GPS tracking device’s and are not able to tell the exact location of your pet. Overtime microchips have the capability to migrate to other places of the body so it is recommended that you periodically have your microchip scanned to ensure it is still readable. Your annual exam at the veterinarian is a great time to do this! It is a good idea for you to document your pet’s microchip number and the name of the microchip company for your records. Microchip’s help many animals find their way back to their owners and are a great precaution to take!

Below you can find a picture of our universal microchip scanner as well as an x-ray of a dog with the microchip. The microchip is the bright white spot at the top of the pet’s body.