Microchipping Your Pet

Microchipping your pet is a proactive way to protect them from the heartbreak of getting lost. This tiny, rice-sized device is implanted under the skin and provides a reliable, lifelong form of identification. If your furry companion ever wanders off, veterinarians and animal shelters can scan the microchip to quickly connect your pet back to you. Studies consistently show that microchipped pets are more likely to be reunited with their families, highlighting the effectiveness of this simple procedure. Unlike collars or tags that can break or slip off, a microchip remains safely in place, reducing the risk of permanent separation. Veterinarians generally recommend microchipping due to its affordability, convenience, and proven track record. Plus, it’s relatively painless and only takes a few moments to complete. By considering microchipping your pet, you invest in a dependable system that strengthens the bond between you and your loyal companion for years to come.

Has your pet been microchipped yet? If not, we recommend getting this done ASAP. In the unfortunate event that your pet was to go missing, Microchipping your pet significantly improves the chances of being reunited with your beloved companion. A local Groton, CT veterinarian offers insight on microchipping below.

How Does The Process Of Microchipping Work?

Your veterinarian will gently insert a small chip under your pet’s skin using a hypodermic needle. This is commonly performed in conjunction with spay/neuter surgery. That’s logical, considering that the animal is already at the clinic and under anesthesia. You can also arrange it as a standalone appointment. Seek additional information from your Groton, CT veterinarian.

Does The Process Of Microchipping Hurt?

This process is pretty straightforward. For Fido and Fluffy, it’s very similar to getting a vaccination shot. There’s no need for recovery time, though your pet might enjoy an additional treat or a new toy.

What Does A Microchip Really Do?

Microchips create an invisible connection between you and your beloved furry companion. They do not store any information, though. Every chip holds just one piece of data: a distinctive identification number. This is related to your account in the chipmaker’s database.

Microchips use a technology called passive radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology. The microchip, also referred to as a transponder or a PIT (passive transponder tag), typically remains inactive. Chips are activated when a specialized scanner is passed over them. These scanners emit radio waves with a low frequency, which then prompt the chip to transmit the unique ID number, which will appear on the device’s screen.

Can I Keep Track Of My Pet With A Microchip?

Unfortunately, no. Microchipping your pet doesn’t include GPS technology. One of the main challenges we face on that front—actually, the main challenge–is the power source. Needless to say, installing batteries in pets isn’t going to work very well! Scientists may someday discover a way to harness the energy from Fluffy’s purrs and Fido’s tail wags to power a microchip, but until then, we aren’t likely to see this change.

However, you can get pet GPS tags, which is a fantastic new invention. Before buying one, you should look at the different choices, though. There is a lot of variation among different companies and products in this regard. Research factors such as battery life, range, technology utilized, waterproofing capabilities, and subscription fees. For instance, certain devices operate using satellite connectivity, while others rely on wi-fi. That being said, these products have already proven to be incredibly effective in helping numerous pet owners control their mischievous pets.

How Long Does A Pet’s Microchip Last?

Typically, microchips have a lifespan of approximately 25 years—much longer than a dog or cat’s. However, for individuals who have pets with longer lifespans, like birds, it may become necessary to replace their microchips at some point.

Is It Possible For Phones To Read Pet Microchips?

Unfortunately, that is not possible. It is unlikely that this will change, as the technology used in phones is fundamentally incompatible with microchips.

Do I Need To Do Anything To Keep My Pet’s Microchip Working?

No. Microchips typically remain inactive for the majority of their lifespan. They require no maintenance or upgrades. It would be a good idea to have your vet check your pet’s chip during their regular appointments, though, just to ensure it is still functioning properly and hasn’t shifted out of place.

It is also important to regularly update your pet’s records.

After Getting My Pet Chipped, Is There A Monthly Fee I Have To Pay?

Possibly. It depends on the chip manufacturer and, in some cases, the package or plan you choose. Some companies offer packages that include fees. With others, it is a one-time payment.

What Should I Do After Getting My Pet Chipped?

You will be asked to fill out your records in the chip maker’s registry. This is extremely important! Without accurate and up-to-date contact information, the chip will be rendered useless.

Don’t forget to update your contact information if you ever move or change numbers.

Why Is It Important To Microchip My Pet?

Pets going missing is a more common occurrence than most people realize. Approximately one out of every three pets gets lost at least once during their lifetime. Microchips also hold up in court, which can be invaluable in theft cases.

People often think that because their pets are loving and loyal, they will never run away. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. It’s important to remember that pets tend to flee when scared. There is typically a significant increase in lost pets following July 4th and New Year’s Eve due to the loud noises and fireworks that many pets find terrifying.

What Other Advantages Do Microchips Offer?

While microchips themselves do not have GPS capabilities, there are certain products available that can be connected to your pets’ microchips. One example of a convenient addition to homes is the chip-linked pet door. If you have a gated yard, you may let Fido come and go whenever they want without worrying about finding a raccoon in your kitchen. You can also find dishes that are designed to only open for a specific chip. This is a useful resource for pet owners who have multiple pets and need to provide one or more of them with specialized diets.

Which Other Animals Have Microchips Implanted In Them?

Chipping is a common practice in dogs and cats, but it is also done for various other animals, such as rabbits, birds, horses, livestock, ferrets, tortoises, and reptiles.

Are ID Tags Still Necessary For Chipped Pets?

Definitely! These are now mandatory in many places. Whether they are required in your area or not, they are still very important. This is the simplest way for someone to reach out to you in case they come across your beloved pet. (Note: We suggest including the word REWARD in the tag to provide an incentive for people to return found pets.)

Why Microchipping Your Pet in 2025 Is Essential for Recovery and Identification

What is the success rate of microchipped pets being returned to owners vs non-microchipped pets?

Studies show that microchipped dogs have a return-to-owner rate of over 50 percent, contrasting with about 20 percent for non-chipped dogs. Cats with chips are reunited around 38 percent of the time, compared to about 2 percent for cats without microchips. These statistics illustrate how valuable microchipping is for improving identification and retrieval of lost pets. The chip’s unique identification number can be quickly scanned by veterinarians or shelters, linking the lost pet to the appropriate contact information. Additionally, verifying microchip function during annual check-ups helps ensure its reliability.

Can all scanners detect all types of microchips?

Not all scanners detect every type of pet microchip. Scanners typically identify microchips using passive RFID technology, but compatibility varies. Most universal scanners recognize chips across different frequencies, such as 125 kHz, 128 kHz, and 134.2 kHz, which are standard in the U.S. and internationally. However, certain older or specialized scanners may not detect all chip frequencies, potentially causing identification issues. Therefore, veterinarians, shelters, and pet rescue organizations generally use universal scanners to ensure broad compatibility, enhancing the likelihood of successfully reuniting pets with their owners regardless of the microchip brand used.

What is the American Animal Hospital Association’s Free Chip Registry?

The American Animal Hospital Association’s Free Chip Registry is a nationwide pet microchip database that allows pet owners to register their pets’ microchip identification numbers at no cost. This registry securely links the unique ID number embedded in the pet’s microchip to the owner’s current contact information. When a lost pet is found, veterinarians or animal shelters scan the chip, retrieve the identification number, and contact the registry to reunite pets with their owners. Owners must regularly update their details to ensure effectiveness, as outdated records significantly reduce the likelihood of reunion.

Is a microchip required for pet travel?

Microchips are commonly recognized as an effective method to verify a pet’s identity and streamline border procedures during international trips. While some countries and airlines do not enforce mandatory microchipping, many require an ISO-compliant chip for entry. This offers swift, dependable identification if documentation is misplaced and protects against potential quarantine issues. Before traveling, verify specific requirements with relevant authorities to ensure full compliance with local rules and regulations. Having a microchip also provides extra assurance should a pet become lost, as shelters and clinics can scan the device and quickly locate owners. Overall, microchips simplify travel logistics and boost peace of mind. Vaccination records, health certificates, or additional documentation may also be necessary, depending on the destination’s policies.

Are there resources to help find lost pets beyond microchipping?

Yes, several resources complement microchipping to assist in locating lost pets. Traditional ID tags remain highly effective and are often mandatory, as they provide immediate contact information. GPS-enabled collars or tags offer real-time tracking but vary widely in technology, range, battery life, and subscription fees. Additionally, chip-linked pet doors and dishes ensure pets remain secure within their homes and yards, reducing escape risks. Proactive steps, like clearly marking pet tags with ‘REWARD,’ also enhance the likelihood of recovery by incentivizing finders to return the animal promptly.

Make An Appointment At Your Groton, CT Pet Hospital

Would you like to book an appointment for your furry friend? Is it time for your pet to visit the animal clinic? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us, your Groton, CT pet hospital, today!