So many pets go missing on a daily basis. And no matter how responsible you are, a beloved pet can get out and go exploring in the blink of an eye while your back might be turned, leading to endless heartache. Should this happen, everything you can do to get your pet back must be in place, and this starts with microchipping.
What is a microchip?
A microchip is a small electronic device enclosed in a glass cylinder and it’s about the same size as a grain of rice. It does not need a battery or to be charged in any way, as it is activated by passing a hand-held scanner over the area, which exudes radio waves that activate the chip. The chip then transmits the identification number to the scanner, which has a screen that displays the number. The number is then used to find the dog’s owner in a database, where the owner’s contact details would’ve been saved upon insertion of the chip. For this reason, it is vitally important to ask your vet for assistance should any of your contact details change. Your details need to be kept updated in the database, otherwise your dog’s microchip will be of no use.
Is there any maintenance to do afterwards?
Your pet’s microchip lasts his whole life, so you only need to do it once. The is done for a minimal fee, which your vet would be able to advise on. Otherwise, the only maintenance required is making sure that your details in the microchip registration database are kept up to date.
A good idea is to ask your vet to test your dog’s microchip when you take him for his annual vaccinations and check-up – just for peace of mind in knowing that everything is still working as it should. If you notice anything abnormal after the chip has been implanted, such as swelling, contact your vet.
Would you like to know more about microchips? Get your copy of the March 2019 edition of Animaltalk now.
