Throughout your pet’s life, one of the most helpful things you can do for her overall health is to keep her properly identified. Microchips are the latest and greatest way to do just that. Here, a veterinarian in Fayetteville NC answers your questions.

What’s a Microchip, Anyway?

A microchip is a tiny computer chip, no larger than a single grain of rice, that’s inserted under the first few layers of your pet’s skin. It contains your pet’s contact information, stored electronically, that can be read by specialized scanners at vet’s offices and adoption shelters. If your pet were to get lost or run away and is eventually delivered to these facilities, the professionals there can read your pet’s information and get them back to you quickly.

Does a Microchip Use GPS?

No, a microchip is not a GPS device. You cannot track your pet’s whereabouts using a microchip. The device simply stores information which is then read by the scanners.

Why Should I Get My Pet Microchipped?

There are many benefits to getting your pet a microchip. First, there’s the advantage that your pet is constantly identified, no matter what happens. Pets can’t take a microchip out, the way they may be able to chew or slip off a collar with ID tags. Secondly, your personal information—phone number, home address, etc.—isn’t displayed publically for anyone who comes across your pet to look at. Additionally, if your information should change for any reason, it’s not hard to have your pet’s chip updated. Simply contact the microchip company, and they can do it electronically without ever seeing your pet!

How is the Microchip Inserted?

The microchip is inserted with a needle, positioned just under the first few layers of skin. Most of the time, it’s put between the shoulder blades. The whole procedure works much like a regular shot or vaccination—it’s quick, easy, and painless.

How Do I Get Started?

If your pet doesn’t have a microchip and you’d like to get her one, contact your veterinary clinic in Fayetteville NC today. Your local veterinary professionals will help your pet get the proper identification she needs!