How to find out a dog's microchip? - briefly
To determine if your dog has a microchip and retrieve its unique identification number, you can use a microchip scanner. Most veterinary clinics have these scanners available for this purpose. Simply bring your dog to a vet or an animal shelter where they can scan the back of your pet's neck to locate the microchip and read its information.
How to find out a dog's microchip? - in detail
To determine if your dog has been microchipped and to locate the microchip, you can follow these steps:
-
Consult Your Veterinarian: The most reliable way to confirm if your dog is microchipped is by consulting with your veterinarian. They have access to databases that can verify the presence of a microchip. Additionally, they can scan your dog using a specialized scanner designed for this purpose.
-
Check for Physical Indicators: Although not always visible, some dogs may have a small lump or bump on their skin where the microchip was inserted. Common areas include between the shoulder blades or along the back of the neck. However, this method is not foolproof as the chip can migrate and may not be detectable by touch.
-
Use a Microchip Scanner: If you have access to a microchip scanner, you can attempt to scan your dog yourself. These devices are available for purchase online or at some veterinary clinics. Place the scanner on the areas where the microchip is typically inserted and follow the instructions provided with the device.
-
Visit an Animal Shelter or Clinic: Many animal shelters and veterinary clinics offer free microchip scanning services. By visiting one of these facilities, a trained professional can use their equipment to scan your dog for a microchip.
-
Review Adoption Papers or Medical Records: If you adopted your dog from a shelter or rescue organization, the adoption papers should indicate whether the dog was microchipped at the time of adoption. Similarly, medical records from previous veterinary visits may contain information about the presence of a microchip.
-
Contact Microchip Registries: In some cases, you can contact microchip registries directly to inquire if your dog's microchip is registered with them. Provide as much information as possible, including any known identifying numbers or tags associated with your dog.
By following these steps, you can effectively determine whether your dog has been microchipped and gather the necessary information to ensure their safety and well-being.