Who chips dogs? - briefly
Dog microchipping is typically performed by veterinarians or trained professionals at animal shelters and clinics. The procedure involves inserting a small chip under the dog's skin, which can then be scanned for identification purposes.
Who chips dogs? - in detail
The practice of chipping dogs, or implanting them with microchips, is a widely adopted method for identifying and tracking pets. This process involves inserting a small device, approximately the size of a grain of rice, under the skin of the animal. The microchip contains a unique identification number that can be read by a scanner. When a dog is chipped, this information is typically stored in a database along with contact details of the owner.
The procedure for chipping dogs is generally straightforward and quick. A veterinarian or a trained professional uses a hypodermic needle to insert the microchip beneath the skin, usually between the shoulder blades. The process is relatively painless and does not require anesthesia, although some dogs may experience slight discomfort similar to a routine vaccination.
The primary purpose of chipping dogs is to enhance their chances of being returned to their owners if they become lost or are stolen. Animal shelters and veterinary clinics routinely scan found animals for microchips as part of the intake process. If a chip is detected, the shelter can use the unique identification number to access the owner's contact information from the database, facilitating a prompt reunion.
In addition to aiding in pet recovery, microchipping dogs can also serve other important functions. It can help in situations where ownership of the dog is disputed, providing clear evidence of who the rightful owner is. Furthermore, microchips can store additional information such as medical history and vaccination records, which can be crucial in emergency situations.
Overall, chipping dogs is a significant advancement in pet identification and safety. It offers peace of mind to pet owners by increasing the likelihood that their lost or stolen pets will be returned home safely. As technology continues to evolve, microchipping is expected to become even more effective and widely used in protecting and caring for our canine companions.