Microchipping is a safety measure that many people take, just in case their pet ever gets lost or stolen. When your pet is microchipped, they will always have your contact information, even if they slipped their collar. Lost pets who have a microchip have a much higher chance of being reunited with their owners. So, if you’re wondering whether or not you should microchip your dog, the answer is YES.
The Benefits of Microchipping Your Dog
Since thousands of pets get lost or stolen every year, having a permanent form of identification is important. A microchip ID is a minuscule device that’s implanted underneath your dog’s skin with a needle. The procedure is quick—all your dog will feel is a prick.
The microchip contains a numeric ID that links to your contact information when scanned. When a veterinary clinic or animal shelter takes in a lost dog, they use a special scanner that activates the chip. The microchip number will appear on the scanner screen, and they can input the number into a database where your information will be listed.
Here are several other benefits of microchipping your dog:
- Microchips offer a reliable and effective solution that cannot be lost or damaged, such as collars and tags.
- Your dog is more likely to be reunited with you more quickly.
- Also, if you microchip your dog, you don’t have to worry about traveling internationally or even to Hawaii. Many countries require pets to be microchipped before they can enter the country.
Five Common Myths About Pet Microchips
Because there are so many myths and misunderstandings about how microchipping works, some pet owners are hesitant to go ahead with it. Let’s address some of the most common concerns—here’s the truth about microchips.
Myth #1: They are harmful.
Microchipping is a non-surgical procedure that causes little to no pain. It is equivalent to your dog getting a vaccination. The microchips are biocompatible, so they will cause no harm to your pet besides some possible slight discomfort while it is being injected.
Myth #2: It is expensive.
The procedure is generally pretty affordable. However, the price can fluctuate based on where you get it done. But when you think about the long-term benefits of getting your pet microchipped, it’s totally worth it.
Myth #3: Microchips are tracking devices.
Microchips are not trackers. They only get activated when a scanner goes over the chip.
Myth #4: Your information is not secure.
Scanning a microchip only reveals a number, which then has to be entered into a database in order to retrieve any information. These databases are highly secure and cannot be accessed by just anyone. Your information will not be available to the public.
Myth #5: Your information updates automatically.
This is not true. If you change your phone number or move to a new house, you’ll need to log in to the database and update your contact information.
What Happens If I Don’t Get My Dog Microchipped?
Many countries outside the United States require pets to be microchipped, so if you plan on traveling to a different country with your pet, check if they require microchips before leaving. If they do and you do not have proof that your pet has a microchip, you could either be sent home or be stuck.
Some other instances that could happen if you don’t get your dog microchipped include:
- If your dog jumps the fence and loses their collar, without a microchip, the person who finds them might be unable to get them home.
- Or if a person finds your dog wandering the neighborhood and brings them to a shelter, the shelter will have no way to find you.
Get Your Dog Microchipped in Harker Heights, TX
Getting your dog microchipped is up to you, but the benefits outweigh any concerns you may have. We know procedures we are not familiar with can make us nervous, but we assure you that your dog probably won’t even know the procedure happened.
At Aztec Pet Hospital, we provide microchipping services and would be happy to discuss the procedure with you to help relieve your fears. Keep your dog safe for life—contact us to schedule an appointment today.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (02/26/2025) Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash