What is included in microchipping a dog? - briefly
Microchipping a dog involves implanting a small device, typically between the shoulder blades or on the back of the neck, which contains a unique identification number. This procedure is usually performed by a veterinarian and includes both the insertion of the chip and the registration of the pet's information in a national database.
What is included in microchipping a dog? - in detail
Microchipping a dog is a straightforward and minimally invasive procedure that involves implanting a small chip under the pet's skin. This process is designed to enhance the chances of reuniting lost pets with their owners by providing a permanent form of identification. The entire microchipping process typically includes several steps, each crucial for ensuring the safety and efficacy of the procedure.
Firstly, the veterinarian or trained professional will prepare the dog for the procedure. This may involve calming the pet to ensure it remains still during the implantation. In some cases, a mild sedative might be administered if the dog is particularly anxious or aggressive. However, this is usually not necessary as the procedure is quick and relatively painless.
The microchip itself is a small device, approximately the size of a grain of rice, that contains a unique identification number. This number is linked to the owner's contact information in a national pet recovery database. The microchip is housed within a sterile applicator designed for easy insertion under the skin.
Once the dog is calm and ready, the veterinarian will use a hypodermic needle to inject the microchip underneath the loose skin between the shoulder blades. This location is chosen because it allows for easy scanning and reduces the likelihood of the chip moving or migrating within the body. The insertion process is swift and often compared to receiving a vaccination shot.
After the microchip has been implanted, the veterinarian will use a scanner to verify that the device is functioning correctly and can be detected. This ensures that the microchip is properly placed and operational, which is vital for future identification purposes.
Following the procedure, the owner will receive registration paperwork that needs to be completed and submitted to the pet recovery database. This step is essential as it links the unique microchip number to the owner's contact information. Without proper registration, the microchip serves little purpose in aiding the return of a lost dog.
In addition to the initial implantation and registration, regular checks are recommended to ensure the microchip remains functional and detectable. Over time, changes in the dog's body composition or movement of the chip can affect its readability. An annual visit to the veterinarian for a microchip scan can help maintain the integrity of this identification method.
In summary, microchipping a dog involves preparing the pet, implanting the microchip, verifying its functionality, and registering the unique identification number with a national database. Regular checks are also advisable to ensure the microchip remains effective over time. This comprehensive approach ensures that pets have a reliable means of identification, increasing the likelihood of successful reunions if they ever become lost.