Microchipping Pets: Key Information

In today’s world, ensuring the safety and well-being of our furry companions is more important than ever. Microchipping pets has emerged as a vital tool in reuniting lost animals with their owners, providing a permanent form of identification that can’t be lost or removed like traditional collars and tags. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, dogs with microchips are more than twice as likely to be returned to their owners, and cats are 20 times more likely. This simple, quick procedure offers peace of mind and significantly increases the chances of a happy reunion if your pet ever goes missing. In this article, we’ll delve into key information about microchipping pets, including how the process works, its benefits, and what you need to know to keep your pet’s microchip information up to date. Understanding microchipping is an essential step toward responsible pet ownership and safeguarding your beloved animal’s future.

Has your pet been microchipped? If not, we suggest getting this done ASAP. Microchips are tiny, but they create a vital—and potentially lifesaving—connection between you and your beloved furry companion. Continue reading this article from a Brampton, ON veterinarian to learn why microchipping your beloved pet is crucial.

Do Microchips Really Work?

Absolutely! They have successfully enabled numerous reunions between lost pets and their concerned owners. If your beloved pet ever goes missing, it could be a lifesaver … literally.

It’s surprising how often pets go missing; unfortunately, many people are unaware of this. About a third get lost at least once in their lives.

Missing pet reports tend to increase significantly after New Year’s Eve and July 4th. This is because many pets tend to run away when they are faced with loud noises and fireworks. Fido and Fluffy also have a knack for going exploring if someone accidentally leaves the door open.

Microchip Basics:

Microchipping pets offers a reliable method of pet identification that is far more enduring than traditional tags or collars. Unlike the complex chips used in phones or computers, pet microchips are simple devices about the size of a grain of rice. They function primarily as a permanent ID, ensuring that pets can be reunited with their owners even if other forms of identification are lost. This technology is invaluable for the safety and security of pets, providing a straightforward solution for pet recovery.

They only consist of a single piece of information: an ID number. They utilize a technology called passive radio-frequency or RFID transmission. The microchip, also known as a transponder or a PIT (passive transponder tag), remains dormant until it is scanned by a designated device. The scanners utilize low-frequency radio waves to activate the chip, and the unique ID number will be displayed on the screen.

Can I Use A Microchip To Track My Pet?

Regrettably, microchips do not possess inherent GPS capabilities. In this case, the main stumbling block is the power source. This is unlikely to change, unless scientists find a way to harness the energy from Fluffy’s purrs and Fido’s wagging tail.

However, GPS tags are available. These devices are absolutely fantastic and have proven invaluable for many pet owners in finding their lost pets.

Before making a purchase, make sure you have done your homework and carefully considered all of your possibilities. Consider several important factors: the device’s ability to withstand water, the technology it uses, how long the battery lasts, the range of coverage, and any potential subscription fees. For example, while some of these devices utilize wi-fi, others rely on satellite technology.

What Animals Are Normally Microchipped?

Microchipping pets is not only routine for dogs and cats but extends to a variety of animals such as ferrets, tortoises, birds, horses, and reptiles. It offers a reliable method for safeguarding your pet’s identification, no matter their species. This includes specific cat breeds like Siamese cats, which are known for their distinctive personality and appearance. If you’re curious about Siamese cats, exploring Fun Facts About Siamese Cats can provide interesting insights. Ultimately, microchipping pets is a vital step in protecting them and ensuring they can be identified and returned safely if lost.

Do I Still Need ID Tags If My Pet Has A Microchip?

Definitely! They are required in various locations. Whether they are required in your area or not, they still carry significant importance. If someone happens to come across your furry companion, they provide a convenient and simple means for them to contact you. (Note: You may want to consider adding the word REWARD on the tag to improve the likelihood of your pet being returned.)

How Does The Microchipping Procedure Work?

It’s very simple. Your Brampton, ON veterinarian will expertly and delicately place the chip beneath your pet’s skin using a hypodermic needle. In dogs and cats, it is positioned right below the skin, between the shoulder blades. This is often done together with neutering or spaying, but you can also choose to schedule it as a separate procedure.

For Fido and Fluffy, it’s much like they’re receiving a vaccination. Complications are exceedingly uncommon. When it comes to recovery time, a couple of ear scritches, a quick nap, and a tasty treat should do the trick. (Of course, if your pet is undergoing surgery, they will require a period of recovery for that.)

How Long Do Microchips Typically Last?

Microchips typically have a lifespan of 25 years, which is considerably longer than the average lifespan of dogs and cats. Over time, pet owners may find it necessary to replace the microchips of animals with longer lifespans, such as birds and horses.

Can Smartphones Scan Microchips?

Unfortunately, no, that’s not possible. Microchips and phone technology are fundamentally incompatible.

What Happens If My Microchipped Pet Is Stolen?

Since microchips can offer indisputable proof of ownership, which is essential in court, they are extremely significant in legal processes.

How Do I Keep My Pet’s Microchip In Good Working Order?

When discussing microchipping pets, it’s important to understand that updating your records is vital for ensuring the chip can do its job effectively. Microchips for pets are typically inert devices that require no maintenance. Although they don’t offer behavior management solutions—like stopping your cat from scratching the furniture or your dog from chewing shoes—they play a crucial role in pet recovery by storing identification data that is accessible when scanned by a vet or shelter.

It is best to have your pet’s vet check the chip on a regular basis to make sure it is still in the right place and working properly.

Is There A Recurring Fee For Microchipping My Pet?

It varies. Some companies may require payment for their services, although this is not always the case. It differs depending on the company. Don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian in Brampton, ON, for more information.

My Pet Is Equipped With A Microchip. Now, What Should I Do?

Now, we just need to complete the chipmaker’s registry. This is of utmost importance! Having up-to-date contact information is crucial for the proper functioning of your chip. Regularly updating your information is crucial for maintaining current and accurate contact details.

What Are The Numbers On Microchips?

The statistics regarding lost animals are quite concerning. A study conducted by Ohio State University yielded significant findings regarding the matter.

• When it comes to stray dogs, those with microchips have a significantly higher chance of being reunited with their owners compared to those without (52.2% vs. 21.9%).
• Cats that have been microchipped have a significantly higher chance of being reunited with their owners compared to cats without chips. The statistics show that 38.5% of microchipped cats find their way back home, while only 1.8% of cats without chips are able to do so.
• Most dog and cat owners with microchipped pets were readily contacted, with a slightly higher proportion of dog owners (74%) compared to cat owners (63.5%).
• A large percentage of cat owners, 61%, and dog owners, 76%, wished to be reunited with their beloved pets.
• Oftentimes, owners were difficult to reach because of incorrect or disconnected phone numbers. Around 35.4% of the observed cases were those particular cases. In addition, an extra 24% of the owners failed to respond to any calls or correspondence. Around ten percent of the chips were not accurately documented, while approximately seventeen percent were registered in a database that was not associated with the chip manufacturers.

What Other Advantages Do Microchips Offer?

There are some cool ones! For instance, certain pet doors can be connected to specific chips. That means you can allow Fido to freely enter and exit the yard without any unwanted guests like raccoons or stray cats accompanying him back inside. Pet dishes are also available that are designed to open for specific chips. This resource is incredibly helpful if you have multiple pets with specific dietary needs … or if you just want to get Fido from eating Fluffy’s food.

Microchipping pets in 2025: Understanding Microchip Frequencies and Travel Requirements

What are the different microchip frequencies available?

Microchips for pets typically operate using passive radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology, which does not require a power source. Most pet microchips function at a frequency of 125 kHz or 134.2 kHz, the latter being ISO standard and more common globally. These frequencies allow scanners to read the microchip’s unique identification number when activated by low-frequency radio waves. Some regions may use other frequencies, but the 125 kHz and 134.2 kHz are standard for ensuring broader compatibility across different scanning systems.

What are the international travel requirements regarding microchips?

When traveling internationally with pets, most countries mandate microchipping for identification. The microchip must comply with ISO standards 11784 and 11785, featuring a 15-digit numeric code. This ensures compatibility with scanners used by international customs officials. If a pet’s microchip is not ISO-compliant, owners may need to provide their own microchip scanner. Microchipping must typically occur before rabies vaccination, as the vaccination certificate must reference the microchip number. This linkage is crucial for verifying the pet’s health status. It’s important to check the specific microchipping and documentation requirements of the destination country well in advance of travel.

Can multiple microchips be implanted in the same pet?

Yes, multiple microchips can be implanted in the same pet, but it’s generally unnecessary and may cause complications. Each microchip contains a unique identification number linked to the owner’s contact information. Implanting more than one chip can lead to confusion during scanning, as multiple IDs might be detected, potentially delaying reunification with the owner. However, in specific cases like international travel, a pet might need an additional microchip compatible with different scanning technologies used abroad. It’s advisable to consult a veterinarian before adding another microchip to ensure it won’t interfere with the existing one or affect the pet’s health.

What happens in the first 24 hours after microchipping?

After microchipping a pet, the first 24 hours are generally straightforward and involve minimal discomfort. The procedure itself is quick, where a veterinarian injects a microchip, roughly the size of a grain of rice, just beneath the pet’s skin using a hypodermic needle, typically between the shoulder blades. Post-procedure, pets might experience mild irritation or swelling at the injection site, but these symptoms usually subside quickly. Owners should monitor their pet for any unusual behavior or signs of infection and keep the injection site clean. Most pets resume normal activities shortly after, with no downtime required.

What is the exact process when a lost pet is found?

When a lost pet is found, the finder can take the animal to a veterinary clinic, animal shelter, or rescue organization where it can be scanned for a microchip. If a microchip is present, the scanner reads the unique ID number stored on the chip. This ID is used to access the owner’s contact information through the chip’s registered database. The facility then contacts the owner using the details provided to facilitate a reunion, making it crucial for pet owners to keep their contact information up-to-date in the microchip registry.

Schedule An Appointment At Our Brampton, ON Animal Clinic

Would you like to schedule an appointment to microchip your pet? Our veterinary services include microchipping along with a wide range of other pet care options. Feel free to contact us, your reliable veterinarian in Brampton, ON, for any of your veterinary needs and care. We are available to assist you with microchipping, regular check-ups, and all aspects of your pet’s health and well-being!