August 15th is National Microchipping Day! So this month we are talking about getting your pet microchipped.
Why should you microchip?
Microchips are almost worldwide in cats and dogs. They are a quick and easy way to reconnect a lost pet to its owner. Even the most loyal of dogs and cats can wander off at times and not be able to find their way back home. Having a microchip ensures your four-legged pal finds their way back to you.
What is it?
Microchips are about the size of a grain of rice. They are implanted just under the skin above the muscle layer usually between the shoulder blades. They are encoded with a number that can be read at most shelters, pet stores, and animal clinics with the wave of a wand (or digital chip reader). Once the scanner has read the chip number, whoever has found your pet gets to work, calling the microchip company to let them know your friend has been found. The company will then contact you and let you know where you can go to pick up your wandering spirit! Microchips aren’t like a “Find My Phone,” where they emit a tracking signal. They cannot be tracked or located only scanned.
When do I get it?
The best time to have a microchip implanted is during surgery. You can do this with dental cleaning, spay, neuter, or whatever! It’s often the least stressful for the patient if we implant while they are sedated. With that said, we can implant a chip while the pet is wide awake. With a little distraction and treats, most pets won’t even notice their chip!
If you have any questions regarding microchipping, give us a call at 905-727-9449.
Written by: Rachel Russell, RVT
