How to chip a dog yourself? - briefly
To chip your dog yourself, you'll need a microchip scanner and the microchip itself. Insert the chip under the skin between the shoulder blades using the scanner, ensuring it is properly placed for future scanning.
How to chip a dog yourself? - in detail
Chipping your dog is an important step in ensuring their safety and well-being, particularly if they ever get lost. This process involves inserting a microchip under the skin of your dog, which contains unique identification information that can be scanned by veterinarians or animal shelters. Here's a detailed guide on how to chip a dog yourself:
Preparation
- Purchase a Microchip Kit: Ensure you have a complete microchip kit that includes the microchip, syringe, and instructions. Kits can be purchased online or from veterinary supply stores.
- Gather Necessary Equipment: You will need an assistant, alcohol swabs for cleaning, latex gloves, and a towel to keep your dog calm and secure during the procedure.
- Register the Microchip: Before inserting the microchip, register it with the appropriate registry. This is crucial as it links the microchip number to your contact information.
Steps to Chip Your Dog
- Prepare the Work Area: Find a quiet, well-lit area where you can comfortably perform the procedure. Spread out a towel on a flat surface for your dog to lie on.
- Restrain Your Dog Safely: Enlist an assistant to help restrain your dog gently but firmly. The best position is with the dog lying on its side, with the assistant holding the front legs and you handling the back end.
- Clean the Injection Site: Use alcohol swabs to clean the area between the shoulder blades where the microchip will be inserted. This helps prevent infection.
- Insert the Microchip:
- Hold the syringe with the needle facing upwards and the microchip visible at the tip.
- Gently pinch a small amount of skin between your fingers to create a slight tent, which is where you will insert the needle.
- Quickly but carefully push the needle through the skin into the loose tissue just under the skin.
- Once the needle is in place, press the plunger to release the microchip under the skin.
- Withdraw the Needle: Slowly and steadily, withdraw the needle from the injection site. Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze to stop any bleeding if necessary.
- Monitor Your Dog: Keep your dog calm and still for a few minutes after the procedure to ensure the microchip stays in place. You can offer treats and praise as a reward for their cooperation.
Post-Procedure Care
- Check the Site Regularly: Monitor the injection site for any signs of infection, such as redness or swelling. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately.
- Schedule a Veterinary Check-up: Even if you've successfully chipped your dog at home, it's a good idea to schedule a check-up with your vet to ensure the microchip is in place and properly registered.
- Update Contact Information: Remember to update your contact information with the microchip registry whenever you move or change phone numbers to ensure your dog can always be reunited with you if lost.
By following these detailed steps, you can successfully chip your dog yourself, providing them with a lifelong means of identification and increasing their chances of being returned to you should they ever go missing.