Microchips are a method of identification and prove ownership of a pet.  A microchip is a small, rice-sized device inserted by injection beneath the pet’s skin between the shoulder blades.  The microchip is permanent and cannot be “lost”.  These chips rarely migrate from the originally placed location.   The microchip number, pet’s home address and client phone numbers are entered into a large database.   This information is readily available on several websites to facilitate reuniting the lost pet with his or her family.   Our favorite microchip search site is AAHA Lookup (https://www.aaha.org/for-veterinary-professionals/microchip-registry-lookup-tool-aaha-find-your-pets-microchip-registry/) because a variety of brands of microchips may be located simultaneously. 

 

Microchips are not tracking devices.  They cannot locate your pet if he or she becomes lost, runs away or escapes your yard.   Should your pet accidentally get lost, he or she must be scanned with a scanner found at veterinary hospitals, shelters or a police station. Once the microchip number is entered into the search database, the personal information listed will help to bring him or her home to you.