A microchip is a tiny device, about the size of a grain of rice, that is implanted under a pet’s skin. This is done with a needle, so the process is much like getting an injection. Scanners at veterinary clinics, humane societies, and animal shelters across the country can detect these chips, and a national registry permits the return of microchipped pets throughout the United States and Canada.

Remember, however, that microchipping alone is not enough. You must register the microchip with the manufacturer and keep your contact information current, especially if you move to a new address or change your phone number.

To remind pet owners to have their pets microchipped and to keep their registration information current, the American Veterinary Medical Association(AVMA) and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) have joined together to create “Check the Chip Day.”

If your pet is microchipped:

  • Check your pet’s registration information in the microchip manufacturer’s database to ensure all contact information is current. To do this, you will need to contact the manufacturer of your pet’s microchip directly and give them your pet’s microchip number.

A microchip with current contact info can help bring a lost pet home

  • If you do not know the manufacturer of your pet’s microchip, AAHA’s Universal Pet Microchip Lookup Tool can help. This Internet-based application is linked to the registries of the majority of microchip manufacturers and allows a quick database search of any microchip made by these manufacturers. Simply enter your pet’s microchip number and the application will generate the name of the manufacturer.
  • Don’t know your pet’s microchip number? Veterinarians are happy to help! Ask your family veterinarian if they have a scanner to scan your pet for you.

If your pet is not microchipped:

  • Make an appointment with your family veterinarian! It only takes a few minutes and you can register your pet immediately.

For more information about National Check the Chip Day, click here. 

 

This blog post originally appeared on The Drake Center and has been adapted with permission for reposting.

 

 

Tags

  • Cat Microchipping
  • Dog Microchipping