Pet Microchipping

What is Pet Microchipping?

A microchip is a small electronic chip about the size of a grain of rice. It is implanted just under your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. Each microchip contains a unique identification number that can be read by a special scanner. This number is linked to your contact information in a national pet recovery database, so if your pet ever goes missing, veterinarians, animal shelters, and animal control officers can scan them and contact you.

Microchipping can also be beneficial if you’re planning to travel with your pet, as some airlines and countries require pets to be microchipped for identification purposes.

Do microchips expire?

No, microchips do not expire. Once implanted, they are designed to last for the lifetime of the pet. Microchips are made of biocompatible materials that do not degrade or break down over time. As long as the microchip is correctly implanted and remains in place, it will continue to function effectively for the pet’s entire life. However, it’s important for pet owners to keep their contact information up to date in the microchip registration database to ensure that they can be contacted if their pet is found.

Is microchipping a pet painful process?

As mentioned, microchipping is a quick and safe process that causes minimal discomfort to pets. The procedure involves only a brief moment of minor discomfort, similar to receiving a routine vaccination.

The microchip is injected under the pet’s skin using a sterile needle, which is slightly larger than those used for standard vaccinations. Most pets tolerate the injection well, experiencing only a slight pinch or discomfort at the time of insertion. After the microchip is implanted, pets generally do not require any special aftercare and can resume their normal activities immediately.

The microchip difference

According to a study made in 2023 by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), only 22% of lost dogs entering shelters were returned to their families. However, this percentage rose to over 52% when the dogs were microchipped.

The difference was even more significant with felines. The study found that only 1 in 50 cats in animal shelters were returned to their owners, but when microchipped, nearly 2 out of 5 cats were reunited with their families.

Benefits of Pet Microchipping

• Permanent Identification: Unlike collars and tags, which can fall off or be removed, a microchip provides permanent identification for your pet.
• Quick and Painless: The microchipping procedure is quick, safe, and virtually painless for your pet. It can be done during a regular veterinary visit and does not require anesthesia.
• Increased Chance of Return: Studies have shown that microchipped pets are more likely to be reunited with their owners if they are lost or stolen.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that your pet has a permanent form of identification can give you peace of mind, especially if your pet is prone to wandering or escaping.

Why Choose Huntington Beach Veterinary Hospital?

• Experienced and caring veterinarians
• Modern facility
• Comprehensive pet microchipping services
• Convenient location in Huntington Beach
• Peace of mind knowing your pet is protected

Don’t wait until it’s too late — contact Huntington Beach Veterinary Hospital today to schedule a microchipping appointment for your pet. Protecting your pet has never been easier.