Despite our best intentions and efforts at keeping our pets secured, it is an inescapable fact that thousands of beloved pets are lost each and every year because they get out of our homes or our yards. While a sturdy collar with an identification tag attached to it is an important measure to take, a microchip is perhaps the best form of defense you have against potentially losing your pet forever.

A pet identification microchip, about the size of a regular grain of rice, is implanted under your pet’s skin by a veterinarian. Every microchip has its own registration number, along with a telephone number for the registry containing all of the pets’ details; including ownership contact details. In the event that your pet is lost and picked up by animal control or by an animal rescue group, they will likely scan your pet with a handheld scanner to locate a microchip which will then aid in providing all of your details to help return your pet to you. Your pet may also be found and brought to a veterinarian office, where it will be scanned.

When your pet is microchipped, you will receive paperwork and an identification card (along with a tag for your pet’s collar) that will provide you with all of the details pertaining to the microchipping registry. Be certain that you access your account with the registry as soon as possible to ensure that the information on file is the most up to date contact information for you; this can often be done online or over the phone. If you move or change phone numbers, don’t forget to update the registry!

For more information related to the microchipping of your pet you should be sure to speak to your veterinarian. A microchipped pet is a pet that is more likely to be returned home!