Each May, Chip Your Pet Month serves as a timely reminder of one of the most effective tools in pet safety and recovery: the microchip. At Family Friends Veterinary Hospital, we’ve seen how microchipping can make the critical difference in reuniting lost pets with their families—even after days, months, or years apart.
If your pet isn’t microchipped yet, or if you’re unsure whether their chip is properly registered, this is the perfect opportunity to take action.
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5 Reasons Microchipping Is a Must
1. Greatly Increases the Chance of a Safe Return
Collars and ID tags are helpful, but they can fall off or become damaged. A microchip provides permanent identification that can’t be lost or altered.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, dogs with microchips are more than twice as likely to be returned to their owners, and cats are more than 20 times as likely compared to those without a chip.
2. Safe, Quick, and Minimally Invasive
Microchipping is a routine procedure performed without anesthesia. The microchip—about the size of a grain of rice—is inserted under the skin between the shoulder blades using a syringe. The process is quick, low-risk, and similar to receiving a vaccination.
3. Reliable, Passive Identification 24/7
Unlike GPS collars or trackers, microchips don’t require charging or batteries. They are passive devices that activate only when scanned. Shelters, veterinary clinics, and animal control offices across the country have universal scanners that can read the chip and contact the microchip registry.
4. One-Time Procedure with Long-Term Benefits
Microchipping is a one-time cost that provides identification for life. While it’s important to keep your contact information current in the microchip registry, there are no ongoing fees or maintenance required. Compared to the stress and potential cost of searching for a lost pet, it’s a smart and valuable investment.
5. Added Protection During Travel or Emergencies
Unexpected situations—such as natural disasters, travel disruptions, or escapes from unfamiliar environments—can separate pets from their families. A microchip provides an additional layer of security during these moments, improving the likelihood of a safe and timely reunion.
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Microchipping Myths vs. Facts
Despite its proven success, misinformation still exists around pet microchipping. Let’s take a moment to separate fact from fiction:
Photo by Julie Balgavy Photography
Not Sure if Your Pet Is Microchipped?
Our team at Family Friends Veterinary Hospital can help. Whether your pet needs to be microchipped, or you simply want to confirm an existing chip is working and properly registered, we’re here to guide you through the process.
Call us today to schedule a chip scan or placement appointment. A few minutes of your time could make all the difference in an emergency.
Protect What Matters Most
Your pet depends on you for safety and security. Microchipping is one of the simplest, most effective steps you can take to ensure they’ll have the best chance of making it back home if ever separated.
