What is a Microchip?
A microchip is a tiny radio frequency identification device (RFID) that is implanted under a dog’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. The microchip itself is very small (about the size of a grain of rice) and contains a unique identification number.
Microchips operate passively and do not require a power source like a battery. When a microchip scanner is passed over the dog’s body, it activates the microchip which then transmits the identification number. This allows the number to be read by the scanner and matched to the owner’s contact information in a registry database.
Unlike GPS pet trackers which actively transmit location data, microchips are passive and only transmit the ID number when scanned. But this makes them a permanent way to identify lost dogs when used in conjunction with registration databases. The lack of battery also means the microchip will last for the dog’s lifetime.
Why Microchip Dogs?
There are several key benefits to microchipping dogs:
- Provides permanent identification if a dog gets lost. A microchip is implanted under the dog’s skin and contains a unique ID number that links to the owner’s contact information in a registry database. This allows shelters or veterinarians to scan a lost dog and identify the owner.
- Links the dog to the owner’s contact information. The microchip is paired with the owner’s name, phone number, address, and other details in a registry database. This allows the dog to be easily reunited with the owner if found.
- Required by many animal shelters now. Due to how effective microchipping is for returning lost pets, an increasing number of shelters require dogs to be microchipped before adoption. This helps ensure adopted dogs can be identified if lost.
In summary, microchipping dogs provides a permanent way to identify lost pets and reunite them with owners. The ability to store owner contact information and scan for identification makes it an invaluable tool for shelters and veterinarians.
Microchip Scanner Needed
A special scanner is required to read a microchipped dog’s identification information. Shelters and veterinary clinics have universal scanners that can detect all microchip frequencies used in pets. When a stray dog arrives, the shelter will scan them to check for a microchip and identify the dog.
The microchip scanner emits a low radio frequency that activates the microchip and causes it to transmit its unique ID code. The scanner then displays this ID number so the shelter can look up the dog’s registration in the microchip company’s database. Without a scanner, the microchip is useless for finding the dog’s owner.
While shelters have professional scanners, individual owners can also purchase handheld scanners to read their pet’s microchip at home. Affordable home scanners plug into a smartphone or tablet to display the pet’s ID [1]. This allows owners to easily verify the microchip is still functional.
Microchip Registry Databases
A microchip registry is a database that stores the unique identification number of your dog’s microchip along with your contact information as the registered owner. When your dog receives a microchip, you must register it with one of these databases so that animal shelters or veterinary offices can look up your information if your lost dog is found.
Some of the major microchip registry databases in the United States include:
Found Animals Registry,
AKC Reunite,
HomeAgain,
Avid Microchip ID Systems, and
PetLink.
The main purpose of these registries is to store owner contact information associated with each microchip ID number. That way, if an animal shelter or vet scans a lost dog and reads its unique chip number, they can search the registry database to find the owner’s name, phone number, address, etc. Having your dog microchipped is useless without registering the chip and keeping your contact info up-to-date in the registry.
Limitations of Microchips
While microchipping dogs provides many benefits, there are some limitations pet owners should be aware of:
One key limitation is that the owner must keep their contact information updated in the microchip registry database. When a lost microchipped dog is found, the chip is scanned and the registry contacted to get the owner’s information. If the owner has moved or changed phone numbers and not updated the registry, contacting them becomes difficult or impossible.
It is critical that pet owners register their microchip and then keep their contact details current. Otherwise, the microchip may not help reunite a lost dog with its owner.
Another limitation is that the microchipped dog must be taken to a scanner in order for the chip to be read. Unlike GPS trackers which actively broadcast a signal, microchips are passive and only transmit when scanned. If someone finds a lost microchipped dog but does not bring it to a vet or shelter to be scanned, the chip does nothing to identify the dog or its owner 1.
While very helpful, microchips have some constraints compared to active tracking devices. But proper use and updating of registry info can maximize their ability to help lost pets get back home.
Microchips vs. GPS Trackers
Microchips and GPS trackers serve different purposes for tracking dogs. As this Safewise article explains, microchips simply identify a dog if they are found, while GPS trackers actively pinpoint a dog’s location in real-time.
Microchips are tiny radio frequency identification (RFID) devices implanted under a dog’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. The microchip contains a unique ID number that can be scanned if the dog is brought to a vet clinic or shelter. The staff can then contact the microchip registry to find the owner’s contact information and identify the dog.
However, microchips do not actively track a dog’s location like a GPS tracker does. They simply provide identification if a lost dog turns up somewhere. As Whistle explains, microchips have no GPS or wireless tracking capabilities. They must be manually scanned at close range to read the ID.
In contrast, GPS dog trackers use cellular and satellite networks to provide real-time location tracking. They allow owners to pinpoint their dog’s location at any time via a phone app or web dashboard. This active tracking capability makes GPS trackers superior for keeping track of runaway or lost dogs.
Choosing a Microchip
When selecting a microchip for your dog, the two leading brands are HomeAgain and 24PetWatch. They both have extensive databases that work with shelters and vet clinics across the U.S. First Street Pets recommends choosing one of these two brands for the best chance of reunification if your dog is lost. The AKC Reunite microchip also has good coverage.
An important consideration is checking which microchip brand and registry your local animal shelters and vet clinics use. You want to make sure your dog’s microchip will be compatible with the scanners in your area. Some facilities only scan for certain microchip frequencies. The Microchip ID number format can also vary between registries, so compatibility is key.
HomeAgain uses a 15 digit ID code and claims to work with 98% of animal shelters in the U.S. Meanwhile, 24PetWatch uses a 10 digit code but also states compatibility with most shelters. According to redditors, both brands have good national reach. Check with your local shelters before deciding.
Microchipping Procedure
The microchipping procedure is quick and easy. It simply involves a veterinarian or trained technician injecting the microchip, which is about the size of a grain of rice, under the dog’s skin with a specialized syringe. The injection is similar to receiving a vaccination and takes just a few seconds to complete.
Unlike more complex procedures, microchipping a dog does not require anesthesia. The dog may feel a pinch from the needle, but most tolerate it well. Some brief discomfort is normal after the injection, but it quickly subsides. Proper aftercare, like gently massaging the area, can help further minimize any soreness. Within a day or two, the dog should be back to normal.
Overall, microchipping is a fast and uncomplicated process. With the chip securely implanted, the dog is then registered in a database linked to the unique ID number encoded in the microchip. This ties the pet to the owner’s contact information so the dog can be identified if lost. Regularly confirming the registration is current is crucial to utilizing the full benefits of microchipping a pet.
Aftercare Tips
After your dog has been microchipped, there are a couple of aftercare tips to follow to ensure proper healing and registration:
Monitor the injection site for any swelling or signs of infection. Some mild irritation is normal, but if you notice excessive redness, swelling, discharge or the area feels hot to the touch, contact your veterinarian. Keep the area clean and avoid letting your dog scratch or lick excessively.
Register the microchip with your contact information as soon as possible. This connects your dog’s microchip ID with your name, phone number, address and other details. That way if your dog gets lost and is scanned, your info can be retrieved from the microchip registry database.
Follow any other aftercare instructions provided by your veterinarian. Usually allowing the injection site to heal for 24 hours before rigorous activity is recommended. Keep the incision dry and clean while healing. If you have any concerns or questions, consult your vet.
Microchipping Cost
Microchipping a dog typically costs between $25 and $50 when done by a veterinarian. According to Dr. Bethany Hsia, D.V.M. and co-founder of CodaPet, the average cost to microchip a dog is around $50 (1). Some vets charge as little as $25, while others may charge up to $60.
There are a few ways dog owners can get their pets microchipped for free or at a lower cost. Many animal shelters and humane societies offer free or low-cost microchipping events and clinics. For example, the ASPCA offers free microchipping services periodically throughout the year (2). Checking with local shelters is a good way to find an affordable or no-cost microchipping option.
Retail pet stores like PetSmart and Petco also offer microchipping services for around $25-35. These national chains frequently run promotions or coupons to make microchipping even more budget-friendly.
Overall the cost to microchip a dog is quite affordable, especially considering the benefits it provides in helping lost pets get returned home. With free and discounted options widely available, pet owners have little barrier to getting their dogs microchipped.