How to change a dog's chip? - briefly
Changing a dog's microchip involves consulting with your veterinarian. The process typically includes inserting a new microchip under the skin and removing or deactivating the old one.
How to change a dog's chip? - in detail
Changing your dog's microchip is a process that requires careful consideration and precise execution. A microchip is a tiny device, about the size of a grain of rice, that is implanted under the skin of your pet for identification purposes. While it is not uncommon to need to change or update this information, it is essential to understand the procedure involved.
Firstly, it is crucial to determine why you need to change the chip. The most common reasons include updating contact information due to a move or change in ownership. If your dog has been lost and found with outdated information, ensuring the microchip data is current can significantly increase the chances of being reunited with your pet.
To initiate the process, you will need to contact your veterinarian or a local animal shelter that provides microchip services. They will be able to guide you through the necessary steps and schedule an appointment for the procedure. It is important to note that changing a microchip involves replacing the old one with a new one, as the chips themselves cannot be reprogrammed.
During the appointment, your veterinarian will first scan your dog's current microchip to retrieve the identification number. This number is unique and remains associated with your pet throughout its lifetime. After locating the chip, the vet will administer a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort for your dog during the procedure.
The next step involves carefully removing the old microchip. The veterinarian will make a small incision in the area where the original chip was implanted, typically between the shoulder blades or on the back of the neck. Using specialized equipment, they will gently extract the old microchip.
Once the old chip has been removed, the vet will prepare and insert the new microchip into the same location. This is a quick and relatively painless procedure for your dog, thanks to the anesthetic. After inserting the new microchip, the veterinarian will close the incision with a few stitches or use surgical glue to ensure proper healing.
After the procedure, it is crucial to keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection. Your vet may provide you with specific aftercare instructions, which might include limiting your dog's activity for a short period to allow the incision to heal properly.
Finally, you will need to register the new microchip with the appropriate database. This step is vital as it ensures that your contact information is up-to-date and accessible in case your pet gets lost again. Most veterinary clinics can assist with this registration process or provide you with the necessary details on how to do it yourself.
In summary, changing a dog's microchip involves removing the old chip and implanting a new one, followed by updating the registration information. While this process requires professional assistance, it is a straightforward procedure that can significantly enhance your pet's chances of being safely returned to you should they ever go missing.