Can microchips be used to track dogs?
Microchips do not have location information on them, so they cannot be used to track dogs in real-time. However, they can be used to identify dogs if they are scanned by a veterinarian or a shelter, which can help reunite the pet with its owner.
Dr. Claudia Lau
Green Dog Veterinary Center
How is a microchip used to identify my dog?
When a dog is registered with a microchip number, the owner can input their personal information, which can be used to contact them if the dog is found. The unique microchip number ensures that the correct owner is contacted and the pet is reunited with them.
Can anybody scan my dog's microchip information?
Only certain agencies, such as veterinarian clinics or shelters, have access to microchip scanners. These scanners are used to read the unique microchip number and access the owner's information.
What does the microchip recovery process look like?
If a lost dog is found and taken to a vet clinic or shelter, the staff can use a microchip scanner to find the unique microchip number associated with the pet. They can then look up this number in a microchip database to find the owner's contact information and reunite the pet with its owner.
As a veterinarian, why would you recommend that a pet get microchipped?
Microchipping pets ensures that they can always be reunited with their owners if they get lost. It is a more permanent and reliable method of identification compared to collars and tags, which can be easily lost or removed.
What if I forget or lose my pet's microchip information?
If you lose your pet's microchip information, you can contact the vet clinic or shelter that originally implanted the microchip. They can help you retrieve the information by contacting the microchip agency or database.
Are there any other products that can connect to my dog's microchip?
There are various products available that can be registered with your pet's microchip, such as pet feeders and pet doors. These products can help keep out unwanted guests and only grant access to your pet.
How do I get my dog microchipped?
You can get your dog microchipped by bringing them to your local veterinarian. The procedure can be done during a regular vet appointment.
Where in the body does the microchip go?
The microchip is injected between the shoulder blades, just under the skin of the dog's back.
Is it painful for them?
The microchip injection is not any more painful than a regular vaccine injection. It is a quick, one-time procedure that provides lifelong identification for your pet.
Are there any risks or side effects associated with microchipping?
Risks and side effects are very rare. The only potential issue could be tenderness at the injection site, but this is uncommon.
Is there a recovery period needed for microchipping?
No, there is no recovery period needed after microchipping. Dogs can return to their normal activities immediately after the procedure.
Will the microchip ever stop working?
Microchips do not normally wear out or turn off, so there is little chance of them not working in the future.
What kind of information is on the microchip?
The information on the microchip is whatever you choose to input when registering it. This can include your full name, residential address, email address, and phone number.
What is the AAHA Universal Pet Microchip Lookup Tool and how does it work?
The AAHA Universal Pet Microchip Lookup Tool is a search tool that combines all the different microchip databases in the country. By entering your pet's microchip number, the tool can direct you to the correct database where your pet is registered, making it easier to find and update your information.
Is my personal information available with a dog's microchip?
The information associated with your pet's microchip is whatever you choose to input when registering it. This can include your personal contact details. If someone looks up the unique microchip number, they would be able to access the information associated with it.
Do I need to register my dog's microchip?
Yes, you need to register your pet's microchip with a database to ensure that all relevant contact information is available. This database is used to find your contact details if your pet is ever lost and their microchip is scanned.
My dog already has a collar and tags, why would you recommend a microchip as well?
Collars and tags can easily come off or be lost, making them less reliable for identifying your pet. Microchipping provides a more permanent and reliable method of identification, ensuring that your pet can always be reunited with you if they get lost.
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