Microchipping Services with South Fraser Animal Hospital
Our veterinarian near Abbotsford offers microchipping for dogs and cats.
It only takes a moment for your dog and cat to bolt out the door or break away from his leash, and many lost dogs and cats never find their way home because they have no form of identification when they get away.
Tags on collars are great, but pets often break or lose their collars in their attempt at freedom. Microchipping is a way to ensure your dog and cat can find his way home, with permanent identification always in place.
Here is a closer look at how you can use a microchip to keep your pet safe.
What Is a Microchip?
A microchip is a tiny electronic device that is injected into your pet just below the skin. It’s only about as big as a grain of rice, but it stores information, like your contact information, which is delivered via radiowaves. When your pet is lost and someone scans him with the right type of scanner, they can access the contact information and get your pet back to you.
Is Microchipping Safe?
Microchips do not need a power source and contain no moving parts, so they are safe to stay in your pet for a lifetime. They are made from material that is compatible with an animal’s body, so any discomfort or rejection is very rare. Over time, the microchip will become encased in the tissue, which means it will not move around the body.
What to Expect at a Microchipping Appointment
If you wish to have your dog and cat microchipped, simply ask about it at your next appointment. The procedure is simple. Dr. Maan will inject the microchip using a sterile syringe into your dog's and cat’s skin between the shoulder blades. The procedure is quick and causes minimal discomfort, just like a vaccination.
Once your dog and cat is microchipped, you will receive paperwork that tells you how to register the microchip. Registering is very important, because that is how your information gets put on to the microchip. If you don’t register the microchip, it is worthless.
You will also need to keep this paperwork so you can change your contact information if you move or get a new phone number. Up-to-date information on the microchip is critical to making sure you protect your pet.
What Happens if Your Dog and Cat Gets Lost?
If your dog and cat is lost, the people who find him can take him to a local vet or shelter to be scanned. If your microchip information is up-to-date, the scanner will find your contact information and the vet or shelter staff can give you a call. You are able to collect your dog and cat and return him home easily.
Microchipping your dog and cat is a simple solution to add a layer of protection in case your pet is lost. Give yourself the peace of mind that comes from knowing you will always have a way to be reunited.
