What is Microchipping?
Microchipping is a method of pet identification that involves implanting a small microchip under a dog’s skin. The microchip contains a unique identification number that can be scanned to reveal the owner’s contact information if the pet gets lost (1).
Microchips are about the size of a grain of rice and are inserted under the skin typically between the shoulder blades using a needle. The process is quick, relatively painless, and does not require anesthesia (2).
Once implanted, the microchip stays in place for the lifetime of a pet. Microchips use passive RFID (radio frequency identification) technology. When scanned by a microchip reader, the chip transmits its ID number (3). This number can then be used to look up the owner’s contact information in a registry database.
The primary benefit of microchipping dogs is improving the chances lost pets are reunited with their owners. One study found lost dogs with microchips were over 2 times more likely to be returned home compared to unchipped dogs (4). Microchips give lost pets a form of identification if their collar and tags fall off.
Other benefits include permanent ID that won’t fade or wear off like collars and tags can. Microchips also make it easy to update owner contact info if moved or changed phone numbers. Overall, microchips provide peace of mind if a beloved pet ever goes missing.
(1) https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/microchipping-pets
(2) https://indoorpet.osu.edu/veterinarians/microchip
(3) https://www.thehomesteadanimalhospital.com/did-you-know-10-facts-about-pet-microchipping/
(4) https://indoorpet.osu.edu/veterinarians/microchip
Does Petco Offer Microchipping Services?
Petco offers a range of veterinary services at their Petco and Unleashed by Petco locations across the country. This includes microchipping dogs and cats. Petco provides microchipping services through their Vetco clinics, which are generally open on weekends and some weekdays.
At a Petco Vetco clinic, a licensed veterinarian will implant a small microchip beneath your pet’s skin. This is done using a needle to quickly insert the chip between the shoulder blades. The microchipping process only takes a few seconds and most pets do not react to it. Some may experience brief soreness at the injection site.
Once the microchip is implanted, the Vetco staff can scan it to ensure it is working properly. They will also assist you in registering your pet’s microchip. This links your contact information to the unique ID number associated with the chip. That way, your pet can be identified and returned if ever lost.
Petco offers lifetime registration with the microchips they implant. So you can update your contact details in the future if needed. Microchipping provides permanent pet identification and greatly improves the chances of reuniting lost pets with their owners.
Petco’s Microchipping Process
Petco uses trained veterinary technicians and veterinarians to implant microchips in pets. The microchips are implanted under the skin between the shoulder blades using a needle and syringe. The process only takes a few seconds and is similar to receiving a routine vaccination.
According to Petco’s website, “A microchip is implanted under the pet’s skin in between the shoulder blades. It’s done quickly, and is no more invasive than a routine shot – though we recommend discussing any concerns with the veterinarian beforehand.”
The microchip insertion process involves:
- Cleaning the area where the microchip will be inserted
- Pinching the skin to make a tent
- Inserting the needle containing the microchip just under the skin
- Pushing the plunger to release the microchip into place
- Removing the needle and applying gentle pressure to ensure the microchip stays in place
Most pets show little reaction to the microchip insertion, though some may vocalize briefly or experience mild soreness afterwards. Any discomfort typically resolves within 24 hours. Proper microchip placement and technique helps minimize any discomfort.
Once the microchip is implanted, the veterinary staff will scan it to ensure it can be detected. They will provide documentation of the microchip number so pet owners can register it to their contact information in a pet recovery database.
Types of Microchips Used by Petco
Petco uses microchips from major brands like Avid, HomeAgain, and 24PetWatch. Some of the key differences between microchip types include:
Avid microchips use 125 kHz frequency and are ISO compliant. They can be read by universal scanners. Avid chips provide lifetime registration and 24/7 customer support.[1]
HomeAgain microchips also operate at 125 kHz frequency but use a proprietary, non-ISO format. They work with HomeAgain’s registration database and scanners. HomeAgain offers free registration and provides 24/7 recovery assistance.[2]
24PetWatch microchips use both 125 kHz and 134.2 kHz frequencies. They work with 24PetWatch’s registration database and scanners. 24PetWatch includes free registration, lost pet alerts, and found pet reporting.[3]
The major difference is that Avid uses an open ISO standard while HomeAgain and 24PetWatch chips can only be scanned by their own scanners. However, universal scanners will usually detect all three major brands.
Registering Your Dog’s Microchip
It is extremely important to register your dog’s microchip right after it is implanted. The microchip itself only contains a unique identification number and no actual information about your pet. In order for it to effectively help reunite you with your lost dog, you must register it with the microchip company by providing your contact details like name, address and phone number.
At Petco, the microchips used are from Avid Identification Systems. After your dog is microchipped at Petco, you can register online at www.avidid.com. Click on “Register Your Microchip” and enter your microchip number and contact information. You can also register by phone by calling Avid at 1-800-336-2843. Be prepared to provide information to verify you are the owner, such as breed, name, color and age.
Make sure to keep your contact details updated with Avid in case you move or change phone numbers. Unregistered microchips greatly reduce your chances of being reunited with your lost pet.
Microchip Costs at Petco
Overall, the average price of microchipping at Petco ranges from $19.99 to $29.99 depending on location and available promotions. The standard fee as of 2023 is $29.99 for the microchip itself and insertion by a veterinarian at an in-store Petco veterinary clinic.
There are often promotions that bring the microchipping fee down to $19.99 or $24.99 during certain times of the year. Petco also frequently offers coupons and discounts that can offset the cost. The microchipping service is more affordable when paired with other veterinary services like vaccinations during low-cost vaccination clinic events.
In addition to the one-time microchip fee, there is an optional annual fee of $19.99 for registering the microchip with a pet recovery service like 24PetWatch. This subscription allows the pet owner to maintain and update their contact information in the microchip registry database in case the pet goes missing. However, registration is not required to get a microchip from Petco.
It’s recommended that pet owners inquire about any current promotions or discounts to get the lowest microchipping price possible at their local Petco. Checking for deals on microchipping paired with other services like vaccinations or exams can also help lower the overall cost.
Sources:
https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/c/microchip
https://www.reddit.com/r/dogs/comments/91li88/help_does_anybody_have_experience_with_petcos/
Alternatives to Petco for Microchipping
While Petco offers convenient microchipping services, there are other options pet owners can consider for getting their dogs microchipped.
Other major retailers like PetSmart and local veterinarians also provide microchipping. According to this article, “large pet stores such as PetSmart or Petco also offer microchipping services.” Your local veterinarian likely offers microchipping as well.
Getting your dog microchipped through your veterinarian can be beneficial, as they will have your pet’s medical records on file. This can help ensure the microchip is properly registered along with your dog’s other information. According to Animal Humane Society, veterinarians will register your pet’s microchip for you during the appointment.
Check with veterinarians in your area to see if they offer microchipping services and at what cost. They may offer competitive rates or packages compared to big box stores. Going through your vet also establishes an ongoing relationship for your dog’s medical needs.
Importance of Keeping Information Updated
It is crucial to notify the microchip company anytime your contact information changes. This includes your address, phone number, and email. If your dog ever gets lost, the microchip company and local shelters need your current contact details in order to reunite you and your pet.
According to Preventive Vet1, you should routinely check that your microchip information is up-to-date. Most microchip registries make it easy to update your details online or over the phone. Petfinder2 recommends contacting your microchip registry annually to confirm your info is current.
It’s also important to keep your pet’s microchip registration active. If the registration lapses, the microchip becomes useless. Make sure to renew the registration as needed and follow any requirements to avoid cancellation.
Microchipping FAQs
Microchipping dogs is a common practice, but many pet owners still have questions about the process. Here are some frequently asked questions about microchipping:
Q: Is microchipping painful for dogs?
A: The microchip injection causes minimal discomfort, similar to a vaccination shot. The microchip itself is so small that once implanted under the dog’s skin, between the shoulder blades, it cannot be felt or cause any pain (Source).
Q: Are there any risks or side effects to microchipping dogs?
A: Serious side effects are extremely rare. In very few cases, a small percentage of dogs may develop a slight infection or skin irritation around the injection site. Overall, microchips are considered extremely safe for pets (Source).
Q: How long do microchips last in dogs?
A: Microchips are designed to last the lifetime of a dog. The microchip itself does not have a battery and will not expire or need to be replaced. As long as the microchip is scanned properly, it can be detected if your dog ever gets lost (Source).
Q: Is my contact info on the microchip?
A: No, the microchip itself only contains an identification number. It is up to the pet owner to register the microchip and provide their contact details in the microchip registry database. This is why it’s essential to register your pet’s microchip and keep your contact info updated.
The Benefits of Microchipping Your Dog
One of the biggest benefits of microchipping your dog is that it greatly improves the odds of finding your lost pet. If your dog ever gets lost or separated from you, animal shelters and veterinary offices across the country can scan for a microchip to identify your pet. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the return-to-owner rate for microchipped pets is over 90% compared to just around 50% for unchipped pets.
Microchips also help accurately identify dogs even if they are not wearing ID tags or collars. The microchip is encoded with a unique number that corresponds to your contact information in a registry database. So even without any external identification, authorities can scan a found dog and get your information to reunite you with your pet. The microchip serves as a permanent form of ID that can’t fall off or get removed like standard collars and tags.
Overall, microchipping provides an invaluable safeguard in case your dog ever becomes lost or separated from you. It gives you the best chance of being reunited with your beloved pet. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, microchipping is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your canine companion.