Microchipping gives your dog or cat a permanent form of identification that cannot fall off like a collar or tag. When a lost pet is scanned at a clinic or shelter, the microchip number links to your contact information in a secure database so you can be contacted quickly.
How Dog Microchips Work
A pet microchip is a tiny device, approximately the size of a grain of rice, that is implanted under the skin and utilizes passive RFID technology. It does not have a battery; instead, a scanner briefly powers the chip, which then transmits a unique ID number used to look up your details.
Where Microchips Are Placed in Dogs
For dogs, the standard microchip site is located just under the skin between the shoulder blades, an area chosen because it is well-padded and inaccessible to pets. This location makes the chip easy for veterinarians and shelters to scan while keeping the procedure quick, safe, and similar in feel to a routine vaccination.
Do Microchips Expire?
Pet microchips are designed to last for your pet’s entire lifetime and do not expire or need routine replacement, because they contain no battery or moving parts. What can “expire” is outdated contact information in the registry, so the most important maintenance is making sure your phone number, address, and email stay current in your pet’s microchip account.
What to Expect at Your Pet’s Microchip Visit
At Pawsitive Care Vet Clinic, microchipping is typically performed during a wellness exam or surgical visit, such as a spay or neuter, to lower stress. A veterinarian or trained team member injects the chip under the skin with a sterile applicator, then scans the area to confirm it is working and properly placed.
Registration and Keeping Info Updated
A microchip only works if it is registered with your current phone number and address in a recognized pet recovery database. After your pet is microchipped, you'll receive registration instructions. Furthermore, you should update your contact details any time you move or change numbers to keep your pet’s safety net strong.