By Dr. Falter, Associate Veterinarian
Did you know that 1 in 3 pets goes missing during its lifetime? 90% of those animals without proper identification are never reunited with their families. Secure collars with identification tags are a good first step in ensuring that you and your pet are reunited should you become separated. However, collars and tags can be lost or removed, so consider microchipping as a permanent method of identification for your pet.
A microchip is approximately the size of a grain of rice and is implanted underneath the skin, usually between the shoulder blades. Implanting a microchip does not require sedation in most pets and results in only very temporary discomfort. After implantation, your pet will not feel the microchip at all. One of our veterinarians can answer any questions you have about a microchip for your pet and will implant the chip during an office visit.
Every microchip contains a unique id number which is linked to your contact information in a comprehensive database. Every animal shelter and veterinary hospital has a scanner which is used to detect the microchip under your pet’s skin. Your contact information can then be accessed and you will be reunited with your pet. If you ever move or change your contact information, you will need to update these changes on the database, a quick and easy process that can usually be done online.
Microchips are a safe and effective means of permanently identifying your pet and helping to ensure that he will always find his way home. Follow this link to read some heart-warming stories about pets who were reunited with their families, thanks to their microchips.
Give us a call today at 301-258-0333 for more information and to make an appointment to be a part of this valuable recovery system.