Microchips are very small: they are only about the size of a grain of rice. However, these tiny devices may be one of the most important tools in your pet care arsenal. If your furry bff hasn’t been chipped yet, we recommend making that appointment as soon as you can. A local Bellaire, TX vet goes over some information on microchips below.

The Procedure

Getting Fido and Fluffy microchipped is a very quick and simple procedure. A hypodermic needle is used to insert the chip between your pet’s shoulder blades, just under the skin. This only takes a minute, and is comparable to getting a shot. Many people opt to do this along with spay/neuter surgery. However, it can also be scheduled separately, or worked into your furry pal’s regular appointment.

How They Work

Microchips don’t upload information, nor will they track your pet’s location. Each chip only contains a single piece of information: a unique ID number. That number is transmitted via radio waves, using something called radio frequency identification (or RFID) technology. That information can be picked up with special scanners, which are used by veterinarians and the staff at animal shelters.

Information

Getting your furry best friend microchipped is only part of the process. You’ll also need to fill out your information in the chipmaker’s account. The chip will be useless if your data isn’t up to date! Be sure to update this information whenever you move or change numbers. (Tip: try using the Pet Microchip Lookout tool here to check your records.)

Note

If your four-legged buddy has been chipped, take a look at your records or have your vet scan them. If the number starts with 900, you may need to register it. These numbers were manufactured overseas or by companies that can no longer be reached.

Maintenance

Although microchips don’t need any maintenance, we do recommend having them checked regularly, as they can slip or malfunction. This is something you can have your vet do at your furry pal’s regular appointments.

Locations

Microchips do not contain GPS trackers. However, you can now get your pet collars or tags that are enabled with GPS. These can be great tools! Just do some research before buying. Some of these products require subscriptions, while others may run off your wi-fi.

Do you need to schedule microchipping? Contact us, your local Bellaire, TX animal clinic, today!