Microchipping: Reliable Pet Protection If They Get Lost
Content Sponsored by 24Petwatch
Quick answer: A microchip is a small, permanent ID implanted under your pet’s skin that contains a unique number linked to your contact info in a registry. It doesn’t track location but can be scanned by shelters or vets if your pet is lost. Implantation typically costs $25–$70 and often includes initial registration. To ensure it works, you must register the chip and keep your info current—an unregistered or outdated chip greatly reduces the chance of being reunited with a lost pet.
Microchipping your dog or cat has emerged as a powerful protective measure bringing comfort and relief to pet parents everywhere. Beyond mere identification, it safeguards our cherished companions and transforms how we care for them. Discover how this tiny yet mighty technology deepens our bond with our lovable, adorable pets.
How Microchipping Works: Step-by-Step Guide
If you're wondering what happens when your pet gets microchipped, here’s a simple breakdown of the process from start to finish.
| Step | Action | Description |
| 1 | Pre-Scan | Vet scans the pet to check for an existing microchip. |
| 2 | Confirm Identity | Vet verifies no duplicate chip is present, and the pet is ready for implantation. |
| 3 | Sterile Preparation | The microchip is loaded into a sterile, single-use applicator needle. |
| 4 | Injection Placement | The microchip is injected under the skin, usually between the shoulder blades. |
| 5 | Post-Scan Confirmation | Vet scans the site to ensure the chip is properly placed and readable. |
| 6 | Owner Registration | The pet owner registers the microchip with their contact information in a database. |
| 7 | Information Verification | The owner receives confirmation and may test database access to ensure accuracy. |
| 8 | Ongoing Maintenance | The owner updates info as needed and has the chip scanned during routine vet visits. |
The Benefit of Microchipping Your Pet
A third of all family pets will get lost at some point. And with general activity and wear and tear, pets can lose their tags. But microchips are the only permanent, reliable solution for lost pet recovery. Though not a GPS, it's a rice-sized radio frequency identification device (RFID) that is quickly and painlessly inserted under your pet's skin. It forms a permanent ID that can be registered to databases and holds critical information about the pet and its parent.
Should I Microchip My Dog or Cat?
When scanned, it helps identify lost and found animals and provides shelters, veterinarians, or other organizations with an easy method to contact the pet parent. There are many misconceptions about microchipping your cat or dog, with many wondering if the benefits are worth it. However, the evidence suggests microchips work. Microchipped dogs are twice as likely to return home, and microchipped cats are more than twenty times more likely to return home than animals without these devices.
What Happens After You Microchip Your Pet?
Check your pet's chip each year to ensure their information is up-to-date. Here are a few easy steps.
- Verify It. Log into the manufacturer's database or look up your pet's microchip number with the Universal Pet Microchip Lookup tool. If you can't remember your brand of microchip or your pet's identification number, contact your veterinarian to find out.
- Not there? Then, register your pet. Ensuring the chip company has your name and phone number is critical. It's worth it, and there's no cost when you create an account with 24Petwatch.
- Update information regularly. Please make sure the microchip company has your current contact information whenever it changes. If your pet is found, companies will need to know how to reach you.
- Not microchipped? Start by visiting a shelter or vet clinic. Most veterinary experts agree that the microchipping procedure is quick, simple, and relatively painless. Many vet clinics can implant one while your pet is awake or under general anesthetic and usually try to complete it during another routine procedure.
Consider getting a Lifetime Protection Membership, offered through 24Petwatch, the leader in lost pet recovery solutions. Since 2003, they've reunited over 730,000 pets with happy pet parents. When your pet is most vulnerable, they'll be there when you can't.
Reunites Made Possible by Microchips
Thanos
Thanos was stolen at 4 months old right out of my backyard. After finding him, I decided to get him microchipped. One day, I got a call saying Thanos had gotten out. After frantically searching, I remembered getting him chipped, which brought some peace of mind.
I received a text message from 24Petwatch saying an officer had picked up Thanos. I felt so relieved. I'm so thankful I got him chipped. It saved the day and countless hours of worry and searching.
I recommend getting a chip for your best furry friend because accidents happen, and it could be the difference between not finding your fur baby or being reunited with them.
Olie
I live in rural Prattville, Alabama. Ollie was stolen out of my yard in late September 2015. Someone found him on April 24th, 2023, still in Prattville. She took him to the Prattville Human Society. They scanned his microchip number into the system, and 24Petwatch called and texted me. Please have your pet chipped. After 7 long years I got my baby back. Thank you, 24Petwatch.
Castiel
After escaping from an upstairs bedroom, my cat, Castiel, decided to go on an adventure. With the grand world before him and the wind in his whiskers, he attended the neighbor's garage sale. Thankfully, a kind woman brought him to the local vet clinic. They scanned his chip and tried to contact me. 24Petwatch, also called. Being at work, I did not answer any calls.
They got ahold of my dad (emergency contact), and now Castiel is safe and sound, living his best indoor life.
Sam
We are so thankful Sam was found because of his microchip from 24Petwatch! We had given Sam to our elderly dad two Christmases ago after his dog passed. Sam lives on a farm and loves to chase the cows.
He went missing five days ago, and we thought he was gone forever. Thankfully, because of his chip, Sam is back home. He was 8 miles away!
Thank you again.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Microchipping
Does microchipping hurt my pet?
Microchipping is quick and causes minimal discomfort, about the same as a routine vaccine shot. Most pets don’t even react.
Can GPS be added to a microchip?
No, microchips don’t have GPS capability. They store a unique ID number that can be scanned, but they can’t track your pet’s location.
What happens if I forget to register the microchip?
An unregistered microchip is almost useless. Without your contact info in a registry, shelters and vets can’t reach you if your pet is found.
How often should I update my microchip info?
Check and update your info at least once a year or anytime your phone number, address, or email changes.
Can microchips expire or stop working?
Microchips are designed to last for your pet’s lifetime and rarely fail. However, it's a good idea to have your vet scan it during checkups to confirm it’s working.