8 Surprising Facts About Microchipping Every Pet Parent Should Know

June is National Microchipping Month, a time to spotlight one of the most reliable ways to keep pets safe if they ever get lost. While microchipping is widely recommended by vets, shelters, and rescue organizations, there are still plenty of myths and gaps in understanding about how it works and what it can (and can’t) do.

Whether your pet is already chipped or you’re just thinking about it, this article covers eight things that might surprise you about microchipping. From common misconceptions to newer tech like ByteTag, we’ll walk through the key facts that can help keep your furry friend protected.

1. A Microchip Won’t Track Your Pet

Despite what some pet parents think, microchips don't have GPS capabilities. This means they can’t track your pet’s movements or show you their location on a map.

A microchip is a passive RFID device, meaning it doesn’t send out a signal on its own. It only works when a scanner passes over it and activates the chip to reveal its unique ID number.

That number is then used to pull up your contact info from a registration database. So, if your pet ever gets lost, the chip only helps once someone finds them and brings them to a vet or shelter equipped with a scanner.

2. Chipped Pets Get Home Faster

The real power of a microchip is what happens after a lost pet is found. According to studies, microchipped dogs are more than twice as likely to be returned to their families. For cats, the numbers are even more dramatic. One study showed that microchipped cats were 20 times more likely to be returned home compared to those without a chip.

That increase in return rates can make a life-or-death difference for pets brought into crowded shelters. It’s not just about peace of mind – microchipping is one of the most effective tools for preventing unnecessary euthanasia and long shelter stays.

3. The Chip Alone Isn’t Enough

A microchip is only as useful as the information connected to it. After the chip is implanted, you’ll need to register it with a microchip registry, like 24Petwatch – the largest in North America! This ensures your contact information is stored and ready if it’s ever needed.

If the chip isn't registered (or your phone number or address is outdated) shelters and vets may not be able to reach you.

Most chip companies offer online accounts where you can easily log in to update your contact details. Some also offer optional services, like alerts when a lost pet is found. It’s smart to review your registration info at least once a year to make sure everything is accurate.

4. Microchips Are Low-Risk and Long-Lasting

Microchipping is a safe and simple procedure. Most pets don’t react much when it’s done, and no surgery or anesthesia is required. The chip is about the size of a grain of rice and is injected just under the skin between the shoulder blades.

Once it’s in place, it requires no maintenance or replacement, as it has no battery or moving parts. In rare cases, a chip might migrate slightly from its original spot, but this doesn’t cause harm and can usually be located with a full-body scan. Most vets recommend checking the chip annually during regular wellness visits.

5. Some Chips Can Store Extra Info

The chip itself only holds an ID number, but the linked database may offer the option to store more details about your pet. This could include medical alerts like allergies, chronic conditions, or behavioral issues, along with alternate contact names or emergency instructions.

This extra layer of information can be extremely helpful, especially if your pet has a medical condition that requires immediate attention or is fearful around strangers. Not all chip companies offer this feature, so it’s worth exploring what your pet’s registry allows you to include.

6. Microchipping Is Safe for All Types of Pets

While most people associate microchips with dogs and cats, many other animals can be safely chipped as well. Ferrets, rabbits, horses, and even some birds and reptiles have been successfully microchipped. For exotic pets, check with a vet who has experience with your specific species.

It’s also worth noting that microchips don’t interfere with other technologies, like GPS collars, Bluetooth trackers, or smart tags. They’re simply one more form of ID – and unlike a collar or tag, they can’t fall off or be removed.

7. June Is a Good Time to Chip (Or Check)

Many veterinary clinics, rescue groups, and shelters offer discounted or even free microchipping services during National Microchipping Month. Some also offer chip-checking days, where you can bring your pet in to confirm the chip is still in place and readable.

Even if your pet already has a chip, June is a great time to log into your registry account and confirm that all your info is up to date. Moving, getting a new phone number, or changing your email address are easy to overlook. But they’re some of the most common reasons pet microchip reunions don’t happen.

8. ByteTag Is a Smart Add-On

While microchips work behind the scenes, visible tags are often the first thing someone notices when they find a lost pet. ByteTag is a new kind of digital ID tag that pairs well with microchipping. It features a QR code that links to your pet’s online profile, accessible with just a smartphone camera.

When someone scans the tag, they’ll see your pet’s name, photo, contact info, medical details, and any notes you choose to share. ByteTag also sends you an alert with the location of the scan, which can help you act fast if your pet is found.

Because it’s digital, you can update the info anytime without ordering a new tag. It’s not a replacement for microchipping, but it’s a great companion tool that makes your pet’s ID even more accessible.

Is Your Pet’s Microchip Doing Its Job?

Microchips are simple, safe, and incredibly helpful when your pet is lost. But only if they’re registered, readable, and backed by current contact info. Adding visible ID like ByteTag only strengthens the safety net and helps get your pet back home faster.

National Microchipping Month is the perfect time to take action. Whether you’re getting a chip for the first time or just logging in to update your info, these small steps make a big difference for your furry friend.