Our pets are not always predictable. Regardless of how protective you are over your pet, he or she is still at risk of getting lost or stolen. Dogs can get distracted by a squirrel, rabbit, or another dog and get lost chasing after them. Even inside cats manage to sneak out if the door or window is held open for too long. That’s why it’s essential to ensure that your pet can be easily reunited with you if ever lost by microchipping him or her. Our team at Quartz Hill Veterinary Clinic can microchip your pet at his or her next veterinary exam.
What Is a Microchip?
A microchip is a small implant that is the size of a grain of rice. Our veterinarians insert this under your pet’s skin. The procedure is painless, and your pet will only feel a small pinch. This chip is connected to a database that will keep your contact information on file. If your pet is ever lost, any vet office, shelter, or police station will easily be able to find you and reunite you with your pet.
Microchips Vs. ID Tags
Many people avoid or delay taking their pet into the animal clinic for microchipping because they think having a personalized tag is just as good as having a microchip implanted. However, we recommend your pet has both options. If your pet is lost in your immediate neighborhood, and the phone number on his or her tag is up-to-date, it is easy for you two to reunite. Chances are, neighbors will recognize your dog, and they will be able to call you. However, your pet’s tags can easily be torn off or removed, making it harder to find your pet. A microchip has your information permanently stored in your pet, so he or she can easily be returned to you. Many cats are also less tolerant of wearing collars, especially those with dangling tags, and are even more likely to escape from those collars than dogs.
Keeping Up with Your Pet’s Microchip
Once your pet’s chip is implanted, your information will need to be registered with the microchip, and that registration will need to be kept up to date if you move or change your contact information. If it is not kept up to date, it will be harder for you and your pet to be reunited. Microchip companies make this easy to do, whether you prefer to give your information over the phone or enter it online at their website.