National Microchipping Month Awareness from Seaside Veterinary Clinic
June is National Microchipping Month, making it the perfect time to talk about one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your pet: microchipping.
At Seaside Veterinary Clinic, we recommend microchipping for both dogs and cats because even indoor pets can unexpectedly get lost. A properly registered microchip can dramatically increase the chances of being reunited with your pet if they ever go missing.
What Is a Pet Microchip?
A microchip is a tiny device, about the size of a grain of rice, that is placed just under your pet’s skin, typically between the shoulder blades.
Each microchip contains a unique identification number that can be scanned by veterinary clinics, shelters, and animal control facilities. That number is connected to your contact information in a secure database.
Unlike collars or tags, a microchip cannot fall off or become unreadable over time.
Why Microchipping Is So Important
No one expects their pet to get lost, but accidents happen every day.
Doors get left open. Storms cause pets to panic. Fireworks scare animals into running away. Even indoor cats can slip outside unexpectedly.
Microchipping provides permanent identification that stays with your pet for life.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, microchipped dogs are more than twice as likely to be returned home, and microchipped cats are even more likely to be reunited with their families.
Microchips Work Best with Updated Information
One of the most important parts of microchipping is keeping your contact information current.
If you move, change phone numbers, or get a new email address, be sure to update your pet’s microchip registration. An outdated microchip registration can make it difficult for shelters or veterinary teams to contact you.
We also recommend having your pet’s microchip scanned during routine wellness visits to ensure it is still functioning properly.
Does My Indoor Pet Need a Microchip?
Yes.
Many lost pets are indoor-only pets who escaped unexpectedly. Cats especially can slip through doors or screens in seconds.
Because collars can come off and tags may become lost, microchips provide an added layer of protection that stays with your pet at all times.
Is Microchipping Safe?
Microchipping is considered very safe and is a quick procedure that can often be performed during a routine appointment.
Most pets tolerate microchip placement very well, similar to receiving a vaccine.
Many owners choose to have their pet microchipped during a wellness exam or while under anesthesia for a spay, neuter, or dental procedure.
Microchipping Is Not GPS Tracking
A common misconception is that microchips act like GPS trackers.
Microchips do not track your pet’s location or provide live monitoring. Instead, they provide permanent identification that can be scanned if your pet is found and brought to a veterinary clinic or shelter.
Protect Your Pet with a Microchip
Microchipping is a small step that can make a life-changing difference.
Use the universal microchip look to ensure your personal information is up to date: AHAA Microchip Registry Lookup
At Seaside Veterinary Clinic, we are happy to answer questions about microchipping, scan existing chips, or help your pet get microchipped during their next visit.đź“Ť Learn more about our practice: Seaside Veterinary Clinic
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