Pet Microchip FAQs

Pet microchipping is a very popular and effective way of permanently attaching your identity to your beloved animal, in a more secure way than just putting your phone number on their collar or tag, which can be easily lost or removed. Nevertheless, many owners don’t fully understand pet microchipping and what it means for them and their pets.

Here are some of the most common questions we get asked about pet microchips, and of course, those all-important answers that you might need about this effective method of identification.

What is a Pet Microchip?

The microchip that is used in pet microchipping is a tiny, electronic chip that is enclosed in a glass cylinder that’s around the same size as a grain of rice. This microchip doesn’t require a battery but instead becomes activated when it comes into close contact with a special radiofrequency scanner. When the scanner is passed over your pet, the chip transmits a unique number to the scanner, along with details of who the microchip provider is. This will tell the vet or shelter to contact you and let you know your pet has been found.

Does Microchipping Hurt My Pet?

The process of microchipping is very straightforward and takes less than a minute. The glass cylinder containing the microchip is implanted under the skin, usually between the shoulder blades, in the same way that a vaccination is given. There is no anesthesia required and your dog will be able to carry on as normal right after.

How Do I Update My Details on The Database?

Keeping your information up to date with your microchip provider is really important, otherwise, you won’t be able to be contacted if your pet is lost/stolen and then recovered. There are various microchip providers, so it’s as simple as contacting the one that your pet’s microchip is registered with to change your contact information. If the owner of an animal has changed, you may need to provide evidence of the transfer of ownership so that the microchip provider can ensure it is legitimate before altering the details on the database.

Is My Personal Information Safe?

Microchip providers typically use incredibly secure databases to protect their customer’s information. Don’t hesitate to ask your microchip provider or vet at Boca Chica Animal Hospital & Pet Resort what security system they use to safeguard your data.

Does My Pet Need a Collar or Tag Too?

Even though your pet has a microchip, it can be helpful for them to wear a collar tag that tells anyone that finds them how to contact you or even that they are microchipped. That way whoever finds them can either call you directly or knows that they should be taken to be scanned so that their owner can be traced.

Do Pet Microchips Do GPS Tracking?

At the present time, pet microchips aren’t able to track the location of your pet.

How Successful is Pet Microchipping for Returning Lost or Stolen Animals with Their Owners?

Pet microchipping is extremely successful. There have been many studies that show that animals are considerably more likely to be reunited with their owners if they are microchipped – particularly in the case of cats. And most types of pets can be microchipped, not just cats and dogs.

Where Do I Go to Get My Pet Microchipped?

Most veterinary clinics, like Boca Chica Animal Hospital & Pet Resort, keep microchips in stock so that the procedure can be carried out without delay.

If you would like more information about pet microchipping, contact Boca Chica Animal Hospital & Pet Resort in Brownsville, TX at (956) 541-5249 to schedule a microchipping appointment.