By microchipping your dog, you can improve the likelihood of finding them if they go missing. Our veterinary team, based in Hohenwald, discusses the advantages of microchipping.
In the past, only a license tag could identify a dog, but it wasn't always reliable because tags and collars could get lost or taken off. Veterinarians used to apply medical tattoos to dogs, but this had some problems like different symbols used by different vets and tattoos being hard to see on dogs with dark skin. Luckily, pet microchips have become the preferred solution!
What Is A Microchip?
Microchips are small RFID chips, similar in size to a grain of rice, that are placed under a dog's skin between the shoulder blades. This is done with a needle, and there is no need for surgery. Most dogs experience little discomfort during the process. To ensure the microchip can be traced back to your home, you will need to register the chip number with the company that produces it.
What About Dog Collars And Tags?
To find lost dogs, collars and tags are useful because they have your contact information on them. Anyone who finds your dog can call you using the phone number on the tag.
Therefore, it is important for your dog to always wear a collar with your name and phone number. However, collars and tags can be lost, so microchips are a good alternative. Microchips are permanent and cannot be lost. If your information is up-to-date, any vet or rescue organization with a scanner can find you and reunite you with your dog.
But remember, microchips are not a replacement for collars and tags because they are not externally visible. So, it's best to have your dog wear a collar with a tag and have a microchip. This increases the chance of being reunited with your dog if they become lost or separated from you.
How Microchips Work
To identify a dog with a microchip, a special scanner is used. Most veterinarians and shelters have this scanner. In the past, different chips needed different scanners, but now modern scanners can read all types of chips, no matter the brand. When the scanner is passed over the dog's back and sides, the chip will send its ID number to the scanner. The rescuer will then contact the national database, which will then contact you, the dog's owner. They will help you take the next steps to bring your dog back home. Microchips are not only useful for finding lost dogs but can also prove ownership.
Are There Risks To Microchipping My Dog?
Some pet owners worry about pain, allergies, or the microchip moving inside their pet's body. But microchips have been used for years and millions of pets have been safely implanted. Newer microchips are even better and allergic reactions or rejection are very rare. Microchips can help reunite dogs with their families even after a long time apart. Talk to your local vet about getting your dog microchipped as soon as possible!
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.