The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) declared August 15 as National Check the Chip Day to remind pet owners around the nation the importance of getting your pet microchipped and keeping those chips up to date!
A big misconception about microchipping your pet is that the chips are public GPS trackers, locating your every move. However, that could not be further from the truth. In case of your pet getting out or becoming lost, a microchip containing a unique identification number will greatly increase the chances you and your pet are reunited. This chip cannot be accessed by just anyone and the unique ID will ensure your contact information is protected.
Upon getting your pets chipped, it’s crucial for you to follow the registration process to ensure the microchip is effective. You will likely be given paperwork or instructions on how to do so, pay attention and get it done as soon as you can. Conveniently, these chips last your pets’ lifetimes and do not need to be replaced.
Just like with all the things we do to keep our pets safe, microchipping is one of them and updating those chips is another. If you change your phone number and/or move, be sure to visit your trusted veterinarian or update your registration online as soon as possible to get your pets’ chips changed. This ensures your pet will be returned safely to you and not to the wrong hands.
A common question pet owners have is whether the microchip will hurt their pet or cause discomfort throughout the course of their lives. The good news is that the injection of the chip hurts no more than any other vaccine and besides that the chip cannot be felt by your pet (or by you for that matter). The chip itself is also made of biocompatible, non-toxic materials that will not degenerate over time, so you don’t have to worry about the chip releasing any harmful chemicals into your pets’ systems.
At the end of the day, microchipping your pet is a safe and reliable way for you to protect them. If you’re looking to microchip your pet, or have questions on how to update their chip, call any one of our five locations to schedule an appointment.
