What is a microchip?
Identification microchips size and shape of a grain of rice, are encoded with an unique identification number then implanted beneath your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. This ID number can be read via scanner at any vets office or shelter – your contact information is linked to the microchip via a registry.
Why microchip your pet?
- According to HomeAgain, 1 in 3 pets will be lost in their lifetime, with over 10 million pets lost or stolen each year.
- Dogs that are microchipped are 238% more likely to be reunited with their families than dogs who are not.
- Cats who are microchipped are more than 2,000% more likely to be reunited with their families than cats who are not.
Animals in NYS are legally required to be scanned for a microchip within 24 hours of entering a shelter (although it’s usually the first thing everyone does). This is the fastest way to guarantee your pet will be returned home to you quickly if they are lost.
A microchip:
- is not a GPS device
- is not a tracking device
- does not store your contact information
So how does this microchip thing work?
Once your pet is microchipped, you register them on a registry, like the FREE one found at Found Pet Registry. Often your vet’s office or adopting shelter will register the microchip for you.
If your pet gets lost (we hope not, but it does happen!), once they are found and brought to a shelter or vet’s office, they get scanned for a microchip. Using the ID number on the microchip, the shelter or vet’s office reports your pet as found and you are alerted via the registry.
You and your pet are happily reunited, and you both go home for treat, belly rubs, and a round (or three) of joyous uglycrying because your furbaby is back home!
Already have your pet microchipped?
Your pet’s microchip is only as good as the information attached to it. Only 58% of microchipped pets are registered in a database with their family’s information. Register your pet’s microchip for FREE at Found Pet Registry today!
Where can I get my pet microchipped?
Any veterinarian’s office can microchip your pet. Many local spay/neuter clinics also offer microchipping services.