How to use a microchip for dogs? - briefly
A microchip for dogs is a small device implanted under the skin, typically between the shoulder blades, that stores a unique identification number. This number can be scanned by veterinarians or animal shelters to retrieve contact information, ensuring your pet can be safely returned if lost.
How to use a microchip for dogs? - in detail
Using a microchip for your dog is an essential step in ensuring their safety and well-being. Microchips are tiny devices, about the size of a grain of rice, that contain unique identification information. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to use a microchip for dogs:
-
Implantation: The first step involves implanting the microchip under your dog’s skin. This is typically done by a veterinarian or an animal shelter professional. The procedure is quick and relatively painless, similar to administering a vaccine. The microchip is inserted using a hypodermic needle, usually between the shoulder blades.
-
Registration: After implantation, it's crucial to register your dog’s microchip with a national pet recovery database. This step ensures that if your dog gets lost and is found by someone else, they can scan the microchip and find your contact information in the database. Popular databases include PetLink, HomeAgain, and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA).
-
Keep Information Up-to-Date: Ensure that all your contact details are current in the database. If you move or change your phone number, update this information promptly. Also, make sure to add any alternative contacts who can be reached if you’re unavailable.
-
Scanning the Microchip: If your dog goes missing and is found by someone else, they will likely take the dog to a veterinarian or animal shelter where staff can scan for a microchip using a universal scanner. This scanner reads the unique ID number encoded in the microchip.
-
Contact Information Retrieval: Once the microchip’s ID number is read, the person who found your dog will contact the pet recovery database to retrieve your information. They will then call you with details about where and how they found your dog.
-
Reunification: Finally, you can arrange a meeting place to be reunited with your dog. This process greatly increases the chances of you and your dog being reunited if he or she gets lost.
By following these steps, you ensure that your dog is always identifiable, which significantly enhances the likelihood of their safe return if they ever wander off. Microchipping is a simple yet effective way to protect your pet, giving you peace of mind and increasing their chances of coming home safely.