Why Microchipping Is Important?
It only takes a moment for your pet to bolt out the door or break away from his leash, and many lost pets never find their way home because they have no form of identification when they get away. Tags on collars are great, but pets often break or lose their collars in their attempt at freedom. Microchipping is a way to ensure your pet can find his way home, with permanent identification always in place.
A microchip is a permanent ID that is the size of a grain of rice that is placed beneath your pet's skin. That ID is associated with all your contact information. In the event your pet gets lost or separated from you, animal hospitals and shelters have the ability to scan the chip and contact you. Microchips give your pet the best chance of coming back home.
Is Microchipping Safe?Microchips do not need a power source and contain no moving parts, so they are safe to stay in your pet for a lifetime. They are made from material that is compatible with an animal’s body, so any discomfort or rejection is very rare. Over time, the microchip will become encased in the tissue, which means it will not move around the body.
What to Expect at a Microchipping Appointment?If you wish to have your pet microchipped, simply ask about it at your next appointment. The procedure is simple. Your pet’s vet will inject the microchip using a sterile syringe into your pet’s skin between the shoulder blades. The procedure is quick and causes minimal discomfort, just like a vaccination. Once your pet is microchipped, you will receive paperwork that tells you how to register the microchip. Registering is very important, because that is how your information gets put on to the microchip. If you don’t register the microchip, it is worthless. Also, you will need to keep this information so you can change your contact information if you move or get a new phone number. Up-to-date information is critical to making sure you protect your pet with your microchip.
What Happens if Your Pet Gets Lost
If your pet is lost, the people who find him can take him to a local vet or shelter to be scanned. If your microchip information is up-to-date, the scanner will find your contact information and the vet or shelter staff can give you a call. You are able to collect your pet and return him home easily. Microchipping your pet is a simple solution to add a layer of protection in case your pet is lost.
Schedule your appointment today with Animal Medical Center of Orange to have your pet microchipped, and give yourself the peace of mind that comes from knowing you will always have a way to be reunited.
- $58 Microchip (complimentary implantation & registration with any surgical procedure)
- $26 Microchip implantation fee (+$58 microchip service if purchased through us)