Do you have your pet microchipped yet? If not, we strongly advise that you complete this as soon as possible. Although the microchip is little, it can have a massive impact on your pet’s life. This post features an answer to some microchip questions from a local Oshawa, ON veterinarian. 

What Is A Microchip?

Microchips are extremely small, and are only roughly the size of a single grain of rice. They are technically radio-frequency identification (RFID) implants, or transponders, housed in extremely small containers.

Microchips do not transfer information or store data. Each chip only holds one piece of information: a unique identification number. This can be read using a specialized scanner.

Can A Magnet Erase A Pet’s Microchip?

No. Microchips do not use magnetism and hence are unaffected by magnets.

Why Should I Have My Pet Microchipped?

This is actually just a fundamental aspect of responsible pet ownership. Do not assume that your pet will never run away. Even the most devoted and faithful pet can get lost or stolen. In fact, up to one in every three pets will go missing at some point in their lives! Unfortunately, only roughly 10% of non-microchipped pets will ever return home. Microchips can make a significant difference here. They have permitted the joyful reunions of thousands—perhaps millions—of missing dogs with their concerned owners, often years after the creature went missing! Ask your vets in London for more information. 

What Are the Benefits of Microchips?

Microchips serve as an unseen safety net, connecting you to your beloved friend. They include a few functions that tags do not. For one thing, they are permanent. They are not as easy to cut off or remove as collars and tags, and your pet will not rip or gnaw them.

They are also quite easy to keep up with. Simply log in to your manufacturer account and make any necessary changes to your information. Furthermore, they are legally binding.

Will My Pet Still Need ID Tags?

Absolutely! Tags are still the most convenient way for others to connect you and your pet. Furthermore, they are needed by law in several jurisdictions.

How Do Microchips Work?

Microchips are passive, meaning they do not emit any information unless activated by the scanner. The scanner will emit radio waves, causing the chip to broadcast the ID number back to the device. The ID number will then appear on the scanner screen.

When Are Microchips Used?

Veterinarians and animal shelter staff frequently use microchips to locate lost dogs and contact their owners. If the pet is microchipped, they can try to contact the owner.

How Can I Get My Pet Microchipped?

Getting your pet microchipped is a simple process. It’ll only take a few minutes. It is often planned alongside spay/neuter surgery for convenience. However, it can be completed on its own.

Is The Microchipping Process Painful For Pets?

Not at all! Your veterinarian will inject the chip with a hypodermic needle. It will be inserted beneath your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. This is all there is to it!

For Fido and Fluffy, it’s similar to getting a shot.

What Should I Do After My Pet Has Been Microchipped?

In most cases, microchipping is a one-time process. However, you must remember to update this information if you relocate or change your email address or phone number. That chip will not work if your contact information is missing or out of current!

It’s also a good idea to have your veterinarian check the chip during your pet’s routine appointments. This is only to ensure that it has not fallen out of place or malfunctioned.

Will My Pet Need Recovery Time After Being Microchipped?

No. There is no recovery time required. However, a special treat and perhaps a few extra forehead scritches would not be inappropriate.

How Does the Microchip Connect My Pet and Me?

Remember the unique ID number we mentioned? That number is connected to your information in the chip manufacturer’s database. After your four-legged friend has been microchipped, you will need to update your information in the chipmaker’s register. Contact your veterinarian for further information.

Can You Track Your Pet With A Microchip?

No. Microchips are not compatible with GPS tracking and are unlikely (though not impossible) to become so in the future. There is a simple explanation for this. GPS systems require some type of power to function. Obviously, placing a battery in Fido and Fluffy is not a practical solution. While we may one day discover a power source that runs on purrs and tail wags, we aren’t quite there yet technologically.

It is worth noting that some products, such as pet doors and bowls, are compatible with microchips. This allows Fido to come in and out of the yard at will via a doggy door while keeping the raccoon out. Alternatively, if Fluffy and Mittens require separate diets, you can acquire them bowls that will only open for the appropriate cat.

Should I Get a GPS Tag for My Pet?

GPS tags are an excellent invention! Just do a lot of research before purchasing. There are many different goods available. These include options for subscription costs, range, technology used, battery life, and water resistance. For example, some use Wi-Fi or cell towers, while others use satellites.

How Long Does a Pet Microchip Last?

Microchips currently have a lifespan of approximately 25 years. That much exceeds the lifespan of many pets. However, birds live longer. If you have a microchipped bird, you may eventually need to replace Polly’s chip.

Are Pet Microchips Worth it?

That would be an unequivocal affirmative from us. The microchip is a tiny device and a one-time expenditure, but it could one day save your pet’s life! We can’t even say that the pros outweigh the cons because there really aren’t any cons. It is always going to be better to have something and not need it than to need it and not have it.

Can You Microchip a Pet at Home?

No, definitely not. This is a medical operation that can only be performed by a qualified veterinary care practitioner. Trying to do it yourself might go very, very wrong. Not only may you hurt your beloved pet, but it’s also illegal in many regions. You could face legal consequences. In certain areas, this may even be considered animal abuse, a felony.

Is There Any Risk Involved With Having My Pet Microchipped?

Microchipping is a very safe process. In reality, it hardly counts as a procedure. There is a slight potential that your pet will have minor edema and/or irritation. Normally, this fades away within a day or so. However, if the problem persists, you should contact your veterinarian right away. However, that would be extremely unlikely.

Is It Possible To Scan Microchips With Smartphones?

Unfortunately, the answer is no. Smartphones can handle a variety of tasks, but there are no apps that will scan chips. Given that microchips use distinct technologies, it’s quite unlikely that this will change anytime soon.

Schedule A Microchipping Appointment With Your Oshawa, ON Veterinarian

Do you need your pet microchipped? Make an appointment today at our local Oshawa, ON Canada veterinarian facility. We are here to help!