Should you Microchip your Pet?

Just like many of us have our important documents secured away in filing cabinets, increasingly a growing number of owners have chosen to have their pets outfitted with microchips. Having an animal microchipped may seem like a daunting and confusing process. 

But thanks to advances made over the last few years in veterinary technology, microchipping is now commonplace for ordinary pet owners across the world ranging from cats, dogs and birds. The intent of this article is to enlighten readers on all things related to pet microchip implantation as well as interesting facts on the history and current use worldwide. 

What Is Microchipping? 

Microchipping involves implanting tiny transponders with unique identification codes into animals such as cats and dogs. Tiny enough to fit inside of a needle, each chip contains information about your pet’s unique identification number, contact information and other identifiable medical data that allows veterinary professionals or animal shelters to quickly identify lost animals that are found or stolen. Pets can be identified even if their tags are taken off or they are far from home since the information remains embedded in the microchip. 

History 

The idea for using an RFID chip for tracking animals was first developed as early as 1973 with the US patent application filed by Charles Walton who was inspired by research being conducted by Motorola on ways to transmit large amounts of data at small distances between electronic devices at that time. By 1989, a staff veterinarian at Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital named Dr LeRoy A. Troxel created a 9-digit ID code that could be used for tracking veterinary patients / ultimately patenting what would become called Implantable Passive Microchip Identification Systems (now commonly known today under brand names such as “HomeAgain”). 

Now 20 years later these systems are established worldwide in more than 30 countries and provide capabilities to access databases around the globe to locate missing pets along with international coordinates & registries so individuals can always keep track of their fur babies while travelling abroad with them if needed. 

In recent years numerous organisations have sprung up across the world offering services dedicated solely towards providing pet owners comprehensive strategies for proper & timely identification including providing microchip implants directly at veterinary clinics everywhere from Japan all the way back home here in Australia, America, & Canada. It is also advantageous for people who’re trying to sell their dogs online since it will validate their ownership without a shadow of doubt. 

Implantation Process/Safety Concerns 

When having your pet microchipped there are several preparation steps you should take beforehand which include making sure Fido is up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations & has had a recent physical examination completed successfully with no signs of infection present before undergoing any type of medical procedure – especially one involving needles.

During each implantation session itself most veterinarians inject what’s called an “implantable transponder” directly into the near collarbone area where it will remain permanently under your furry friend’s skin without causing any pain, discomfort, fear or anxiety whatsoever. Depending on individual circumstances though some pets may feel very slight prick sensation due needle entry so please know ahead if your animal will require sedation during the entire procedure instead (it would be a much better safety precaution). 

As long as proper precautions are followed, there should not really be any serious health risks associated with direct chip insertion itself apart from a minor swelling site following initial application which typically subsides within 24hrs.

Pet Insurance & Microchipping 

Did you know Pet insurance policies now also often cover costs associated with getting your beloved family companion properly implanted too!? Many prominent carriers like ASPCA,  Animal Planet & VPI actually offer reimbursement discounts if both owner/pet meet certain criteria through various tiers depending upon the type of service requested presented.

While others insist upon requiring certain amount tag fees before offering reimbursements available either way, sometimes thousands dollars worth savings added value each year potential peace mind well worth consideration prior signing policies especially when applicable. Bottom line – make sure to review paperwork to ensure everything done legally right that leads to an affordable coverage plan that works best for everyone.

Parting Words

Having our beloved animals equipped with microchips is an excellent way to protect them against loss or theft and to give us comfort knowing that they will be properly taken care of should something unexpected happen. It is also important before having a pet chipped, that we look into pet insurance companies that offer additional protection beyond registration tag costs for further peace of mind. 

Furthermore, understanding the implantation process prior helps ensure safety measures are followed during procedures themselves allowing us more than enough assurance our buddies won’t feel any ill effects afterward so take action today and give your pets lifetime security they deserve.