How to track a dog by microchip? - briefly
To track a dog by microchip, you will need a scanner that is compatible with the specific frequency of the chip. Once the dog is found and scanned, the microchip's unique identification number can be used to retrieve contact information from the pet recovery database, allowing you to reunite the dog with its owner.
How to track a dog by microchip? - in detail
Tracking a dog by microchip involves several key steps, from ensuring the microchip is properly registered to utilizing specialized scanners and databases. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to effectively trace a lost or stolen dog using this technology:
Firstly, it's crucial to understand that a microchip is a small device, typically around the size of a grain of rice, which is implanted under the skin of the dog, usually between the shoulder blades. The chip contains a unique identification number that can be read by a scanner. This number is linked to a database with contact information for the pet owner.
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Implantation and Registration: Ensure your dog has a microchip implanted by a veterinarian or a professional. After implantation, it’s essential to register the chip with a reputable pet recovery service such as PetLink, HomeAgain, or the American Microchip Advisory Council (AMAC). During registration, provide accurate and up-to-date contact information, including your phone number, address, and email.
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Scanning the Chip: When a dog is found, animal shelters, veterinary clinics, and rescue organizations typically scan the dog for a microchip using a universal scanner. These scanners detect radio frequency signals emitted by the chip when activated by the scanner. The scanned number is then used to search pet recovery databases.
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Database Search: Once the microchip number is obtained, shelter staff or veterinarians will input this number into a database. If the microchip is registered with a recognized service, the database should return contact information for the dog’s owner. This process can take just a few moments if the chip is registered and the data is current.
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Owner Notification: The recovery service will then contact the pet owner using the provided information. Owners are usually notified via phone call, email, or text message. It's critical for owners to maintain updated contact details with the registry to ensure prompt notification in case their dog goes missing.
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Reuniting Pet and Owner: After being contacted, the owner can arrange to reunite with their pet. This often involves visiting the shelter or rescue organization where the dog was taken. In some cases, arrangements for transporting the pet back home may be necessary.
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Preventive Measures: To enhance the chances of a successful recovery, consider using additional identification methods alongside microchipping, such as ID tags on collars. Regularly check your dog’s collar and ensure that the tag information is current.
By following these detailed steps, pet owners can significantly increase the likelihood of being reunited with their lost or stolen dogs through effective microchip tracking.