Why Microchip Your Pet?

Pet microchipping isn’t all that new, yet many animals still haven’t undergone this important and very simple procedure which significantly increases the likelihood that they will be reunited with their owner. Part of the reason for this is that there are some owners that don’t understand how it works and why it should be a priority for any responsible animal parent. Here’s what you need to know about why you should microchip your pet. 

 

How Does Pet Microchipping Work?

Microchips are widely used across various industries in the world. Each microchip used for pet identification is a tiny, radio frequency identification device (RFID) that remains inactive until it comes into close contact with a microchip scanner. When this happens, such as when the scanner is run over the body of a found pet, the microchip emits a unique number which is detected by the scanner. The number relates to an entry on a secure database of pet ownership information, enabling the vet or shelter scanning the animal to make contact with the last known owner on the register. 

 

The Safety of Personal Information

Unsurprisingly, many people are concerned about the safety of their personal information and the possibility of identity theft. Although every microchip provider has slightly different security, they all ensure that the only data stored on the microchip itself is the unique identification number. Contact must then be made with the microchip provider who will normally contact the owner on behalf of the vet or shelter or will pass on the relevant details so that they can be contacted. 

 

Reasons to Microchip Your Pet

Many owners wonder if the benefits of microchipping their pets will outweigh the cost of the procedure. However, most pet parents agree that the advantages associated with the procedure make it an extremely worthwhile process. Some of the reasons why you should make microchipping your pet a priority include:  

Increase the likelihood of your pet’s safe return

Every year, millions of animals across the United States become lost, causing heartbreak for their owners. Collars and tags can still be beneficial if your pet has been recovered locally, but they aren’t suitable for all animals and they can fall off or be removed. Fortunately, microchipping is permanent and completely tamper-free. Research has shown that pets that are microchipped are significantly more likely to be safely returned to their owner. 

Settle pet ownership disputes

Unfortunately, a large number of pets are also stolen each year. Whether they were initially lost, and the finder decided to keep them for themselves, or they have deliberately been taken, if you manage to track them down, you may need to fight to prove that you are the animal’s real owner. This is an unfortunate, but common occurrence, especially if your animal is a particularly desirable breed. 

Pet ownership disputes happen more often than you might expect, and they can be very difficult to resolve. After all, many creatures look very alike, and your pet is unable to verbally confirm who their rightful owner is. Just coming to you when called isn’t considered sufficient proof. However, provided you register your pet’s microchip with your details as soon as your take ownership (which you will normally need proof of purchase/adoption to do), microchipping your animal can be one way to settle any disputes.  

Helping you to say goodbye

Regrettably, not every pet that is recovered will go on to live out their lives with their owners. In some cases, they have been injured and need urgent medical care and do not survive, whilst others are found having already passed away. However, microchipping still proves beneficial even in these circumstances as for many owners, discovering what has happened to their pet, and having the opportunity to say a proper goodbye in the manner of their choosing enables them to grieve properly. 

If you are interested in finding out more about pet microchipping, or to schedule an appointment for your pet, please contact our experienced and knowledgeable veterinary team in Lakeville, MN.