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Micro-Chip Your Pet

What are microchips, and how do they work? Can they harm my pet?
A microchip is often called "the I.D. that cannot be lost." It is a small computer chip the size of a grain of rice that is commonly implanted in the pet near the shoulder blades. It is implanted with a special syringe and the procedure only takes a few moments. It may sting the pet momentarily, but this goes away quickly, and the benefits of having your pet microchipped far outweigh the few seconds of discomfort (the procedure is much like giving vaccinations to the animal). The chip is designed to attach itself inside the skin and it can be left in place for the rest of the animal's life without harm.

If a pet who has been implanted with a chip is found and taken to a shelter or veterinarian who has a scanner, the scanner will detect the presence of a chip and the shelter or vet can call a registry to find the owner information. It is imperative that owners of chipped animals make sure their registry information is complete and updated as needed. (The agency that microchips your pet will either send in your registry info for you, or will give you all the info you need to send it in yourself.)

Because of microchipping, animals have been reunited with their owners even after years of being lost, and at great distances. It is not foolproof, as there are several brands of chips and scanners, and all are not compatible yet. The AHS uses the 24PetWatch Microchips and our scanners can read the common chips (even from other companies) out there.

Microchipping is a great way to make sure lost pets can get home again. Make sure your pet wears an updated I.D. tag on his collar at all times, too (you can make your own when you adopt). Ask a staff member for more information.

Micro-chipping
$25 includes the implantation of a microchip and free registration of the chip with a national database. (to aid in locating your pet if it becomes lost). To get your pet micro-chipped call the veterinary wellness hospital at 404.875.6420.