According to the American Humane Association, at least 10 million dogs and cats go missing every year in America. Many of these lost animals are euthanized in shelters because their owners cannot be found. Those that do make it back home usually do so because they are microchipped.
Dr. Acworth and our team at All Animal Veterinary Services would like to look at the facts you need to know about microchipping your pet. If you are considering this simple procedure and live in or around Ulster County, in Modena or New Paltz, schedule an appointment at All Animal Veterinary Services.
What is a Microchip?
Microchips are tiny devices about as large as a grain of rice. They work by transmitting a unique number by radio frequency to a scanner, called a microchip reader. Many of the newer microchips have temperature sensors, which makes examinations much easier and less stressful, since a thermometer is not needed.
Do Microchips Contain Personal Information?
The only information the microchip shows is a number. The record the microchip company stores in their databases contains your name, email, phone number, and address.
What is the Microchipping Procedure Like?
For your pet, getting a microchip is just like getting a vaccination. The microchip is inserted under the skin between your pet’s shoulder blades with a needle. You will fill out some paperwork to register your contact information in the microchip company’s national database. You can have your pet get a microchip during a wellness exam and sedation is not needed.
Do Microchips Ever Move?
Microchips have been known to move from the injection site. Although some microchips may migrate under the skin, they still work. Because it is well known that microchips can move, it is standard procedure in shelters and veterinary clinics to scan a pet’s whole body for a microchip, and not just between the shoulder blades.
What if I Move?
If you move, get a new phone number, change your name, or change any part of your contact information, you need to update it with the microchip company. Updating your information can be done online or by telephone for no charge.
Do All Microchip Readers Read All Microchips?
Many years ago, there was a major problem of microchip readers only being able to scan microchips made by particular companies. In recent years, universal microchip readers have become available.
How Much Does Microchipping Cost?
Microchipping usually costs less than $50.
Get Your Pet Microchipped at All Animal Veterinary Services
If you have questions about microchipping your pet or would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Acworth, contact All Animal Veterinary Services. We provide quality veterinary care for pets in Ulster County, in Modena or New Paltz, NY. Call our team today at (845) 255-2900 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.
