Microchipping
A microchip provides a safe, permanent form of identification that significantly increases the chances of a lost pet being reunited with their family.
A Permanent Link Back Home
No one wants to imagine their beloved pet becoming lost, but accidents can happen. A microchip provides a safe, permanent form of identification that significantly increases the chances of a lost pet being reunited with their family.
Unlike collars and tags, which can break or become lost, a microchip remains with your pet for life and can be quickly scanned by veterinary hospitals, shelters, and animal control organizations across the country.
Why Should I Microchip My Pet?
Microchipping is one of the most reliable ways to help lost pets return home safely. While collars and identification tags are important, they can be removed or lost. A microchip provides permanent identification that cannot be misplaced.
Benefits of microchipping include:
Permanent identification
Quick and painless placement
Increased likelihood of recovering a lost pet
Nationwide identification and recovery support
Peace of mind for pet owners
When Should My Pet Be Microchipped?
Microchipping can be performed at almost any age and is often done during a routine wellness visit or surgical procedure. Even pets that live primarily indoors can benefit from microchipping, as unexpected escapes can happen when doors, windows, or carriers are opened.
Because no one can predict when a pet may become separated from their family, we recommend microchipping as part of a comprehensive preventive healthcare plan.
How Does a Microchip Work?
A microchip is a tiny device, approximately the size of a grain of rice, that is placed just beneath the skin between your pet's shoulder blades. The procedure is quick, safe, and similar to receiving a routine vaccination.
Each microchip contains a unique identification number that can be detected using a handheld scanner. Veterinary hospitals, shelters, and animal welfare organizations routinely scan found pets for microchips.
Once a microchip is detected, the identification number is used to access the owner's contact information through the chip registration database, helping reunite lost pets with their families as quickly as possible.
Keep Your Registration Current
A microchip is only effective if the registration information is accurate and up to date. If you move, change phone numbers, or update your contact information, be sure to update your pet's microchip registration as well.
Peace of Mind When It Matters Most
Microchipping is a simple step that can make a tremendous difference if your pet ever becomes lost. Combined with a collar, identification tag, and regular veterinary care, a microchip provides an added layer of protection and peace of mind for pet owners.
At Mattituck-Laurel Veterinary Hospital, we're happy to answer any questions you may have about microchipping and help you ensure your pet has the best chance of finding their way home.
Looking for a Lost Pet?
You can search participating microchip registries through Pet Microchip Lookup.