In recent years, microchipping pets has become a common practice. It involves implanting a very small chip (about the size of a kernel of rice) directly between the dog’s shoulder blades. Microchipping your pet is a way to keep the animal safe. In this article, we will explore the reasons to microchip your dog.
Legalities of Microchipping a Dog
In many countries, such as Scotland, Ireland, and England, the law dictates that all dogs must have a microchip. However, in regions where it is not law, you might wonder why you should microchip your pet.
A Microchip Can Help a Lost Dog Find His Way Home
Pet owners live in fear of losing their beloved dogs. A collar can easily break or fall off, so there is no way to identify your pet if someone finds him. However, a microchip is a perfect way to find the owner’s information. The chip contains vital information that ranges from the owner’s name, address, and phone number to important medical information about severe conditions that the dog might suffer from.
Most veterinarians, animal rescues, and shelters have a handheld device that they can use to scan a pet to detect a microchip and obtain the necessary information to return your dog to you.
Show Ownership
Dogs are often costly, and many criminals are tempted to steal high-dollar animals to sell on the black market. A microchip lets you prove that your dog belongs to you. All disputes of ownership are quickly cleared up and the stolen pet returned to its rightful owner.
Last a Lifetime
Unlike a collar with ID tags that fall off, a microchip will last a lifetime. You might have to update your information with the microchip’s database, but the chip will continue to function and last for the pet’s life.
Quick and Easy
A microchip is quick and easy to inject into your pet. It typically only takes a couple of minutes from start to finish. You will be requested to fill out a form with your personal information, which will then be entered into the database to show ownership of the dog.
Disadvantages of Microchipping Your Pet
The benefits of microchipping outweigh the cons, but there are a few disadvantages of microchipping then should be noted, such as the following:
The Microchip Can Travel
In some situations, the microchip can migrate away from the dog’s shoulder blades to other areas of its body. It does not pose a danger to your pet. However, if the chip moves, it is often difficult for the scanner to tell if the dog even has a microchip.
Takes a Special Scanner
A few microchips have been manufactured by off-brands and take a special scanner to read the information. If the veterinarian, animal rescue, or shelter does not have the special scanner, they will have difficulty accessing the ownership information from the dog’s microchip.
Overall, microchipping your dog is a safe and effective way to keep Fido safe and ensure that his chances of being returned to you if he becomes lost increase. Usually, the price of a microchip is very reasonable and provides wonderful peace of mind.
