Microchip Identification

Microchips are commonly used in veterinary medicine for the permanent identification of pets. As with any identification system, there are distinct advantages and disadvantages. The advantages of microchip placement include:

1. Permanence--Once in place, a microchip is permanent. The number cannot be altered or deleted. A microchip cannot be lost or misplaced like a collar and identification tag. 
   
2. Ease--Microchips are placed with a single injection. There is nothing more to do. 
   
3. Scanner Availability--Many animal shelters have been provided with scanners free of charge in exchange for a promise to scan every animal that enters the shelter and any animal that is to be euthanized. In addition, many veterinary clinics have microchip scanners. Thus, lost animals ending up in these locations have a good chance of getting scanned. Currently, the McDonough County Animal Shelter scans EVERY animal TWICE with two different scanners.
   
4. Minimal expense--Microchips are reasonably priced, as is the cost of a database registration.

Here's how it works:

1. The syringe containing the microchip is prepared for usage.
   
2. The needle is inserted under the skin between the shoulder blades and the chip is injected.
   
3. The animal is scanned to be sure the chip is in place and functioning properly. The chip will then remain in place for the life of the pet. 
   
4. Paperwork for registration of the microchip number is completed and mailed in. Once received, the number becomes a part of a national database. If the pet is lost and scanned, the finder can call the database with the number and the owner can be notified. 
   
5. In addition to microchip placement, a tag is provided for the pet's collar. The tag can alert the person finding the pet of implanted microchip.

For more information regarding microchip placement, please do not hesitate to contact us. 

The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to take the place of your regular veterinarian. Please do not hesitate to contact your regular veterinarian if you have questions regarding your pet.