What You Need to Know about Microchipping your Pet
May is Chip Your Pet Month. So what better time than now to address this question we get very so often. We thought best to explain the benefits that come with microchipping your pet and why you should do it if you haven't already.
I am sure you have had this nightmare before, I know I have. When you lose your pet and your look everywhere and you can't find him. You took his collar off for a bath and forgot to put it back on....ooops!!
This happens all too often and we at PVC want to help you understand why microchipping your pet is more of a necessity than an extra commodity.
What are microchips?
Microchips are tiny transponders, about the size of a grain of rice, that use radio frequency waves to transmit information about your pet. They're implanted just under the skin,, usually right between the shoulder blades.
Are there different types of chips?
Yes, and that used to be a problem. Competing microchip companies use different frequencies to send signals to scanners, and until recently there was no universal scanner that could read all the different frequencies. That was a problem if a pet had a microchip that a scanner couldn't detect.
Many microchip companies now produce universal scanners and provide them to animal shelters and animal control agencies at no or very low cost. If your local shelters don’t have scanners, they can contact some of the major manufacturers to ask about getting one.
Are there different registries?
Yes, and that, too, used to be problematic. Different chip companies maintained separate databases. Now, some chip companies will register pets with any brand of chip Also, the American Microchip Advisory Council is working to develop a network of the registry databases to streamline the return of pets to their families.
Can a microchip replace my pet's collar and tags?
Despite advances in universal scanners and registry procedures, microchips aren't foolproof, and you shouldn't rely on them exclusively to protect your pet. Universal scanners can detect a competing company's chip, but they may not be able to read the data. And if shelter or vet clinic personnel don’t use the scanner properly, they may fail to detect a chip.
Where can I get my pet microchipped?
This month, bring your pet in to PVC or LVC for 25% off microchipping with a physical exam. This will give you an extra level of protection in case your dog or cat does go missing without any tags on.
How do I register my pet?
Once he or she is chipped, you then must go online to a website to register your pet's information so it can be transmitted. PVC, LVC and shelters carry a handheld scanner that detects the microchip and then displays the registration and phone number that you registered with it.
How long do microchips last?
It can last for up to 25 years.
Can a microchip get lost inside my pet?
It’s impossible for the microchip to get lost inside your pet and i
So now that we have answered all your questions, why not come in today and get your pet chipped? I feel at ease knowing my pet will always be able to be identified, no matter what. And we promise you will feel that way too!
