MICROCHIPPING
A microchip is a small electronic device about the size of a grain of rice. The microchip is inserted under your pet’s skin, between their shoulder blades, via a quick injection. Once inserted, a pet cannot feel the microchip and the special capsule around it means that it does not break down and is designed to last your pet’s lifetime.
The microchip is coded with a unique number that can be read by a scanner. Microchips do not store personal data – this is kept against the unique identification number on a secure database. If your pet is found and scanned, the microchip database is accessed online and the organisation that has your pets, for example a veterinary surgery, a rescue centre or the police, can use the number to find your details. You can then be contacted and your pet safely reunited with you.
Why You Should Microchip Your Dog
No method of identification is perfect. Responsible pet ownership includes keeping current on your identification tags, keep your dog leashed, and refrain from letting your pet freely roam. As a backup plan, consider microchipping as reinforcement. If your pet does become lost, more identification can increase the odds of finding your beloved companion.
Always keep your contact information updated with the microchip registration company. That way, you can be quickly contacted in the event your dog goes missing and the chip is scanned. If you move, get a new phone number, or change your email address, be sure to immediately change your microchip contact information.
