Miniaturized bar-code technology has resulted in the introduction of microchipping, which has revolutionized pet identification. The microchip, which is about the size of a grain of rice, is implanted under the skin between the shoulder blades of your pet through an injection similar to having your pet vaccinated. The procedure is quick to perform, requires no anesthesia, and can be done during a routine office visit to your veterinarian. Once implanted, your pet is permanently identified with a unique ID number. Should your pet become lost, his unique ID number can be easily displayed with a microchip reader. This allows you to be quickly identified and reunited with your pet.

Since the introduction of microchipping technology, many myths have sprung up that have kept people from using it.

Myth # 1: Microchip ID numbers are sometimes duplicated between companion animals and livestock as well as between the different manufacturers of microchips. This may result in a failure to accurately identify your pet. Truth: The uniqueness of identification numbers is key to the success of microchipping. The design of the microchip code allows for 275 billion different identification numbers to be produced. This, coupled with unique manufacturer products and codes, ensures that number duplication never occurs.

Myth # 2: Microchip ID numbers will not hold up in a court of law if someone claims your pet. Truth: Although this has never been actually tested in a court of law, the fact that a microchip ID number is unique, unalterable, and linked to the true owner through an international database, it would likely be viewed as providing the same owner verification as serial numbers on vehicles, appliances, etc. Confidence in microchipping’s ability to definitively identify an animal has resulted in both the American and Canadian Kennel Clubs acceptance of microchip identification for purebred dog registration. To avoid any potential conflict, ensure that the animal and owner information contained on the database is correct and kept updated.

Myth # 3: Most shelters and veterinarians don’t have microchip readers, which makes microchip identification unlikely. Truth: Although it is true that the availability of microchip readers depends on the shelter, veterinarian, or geographic location within the US (virtually all animal control services have them in Canada), the three main microchip manufacturers offer readers to all animal control/shelter/humane societies either free or for a nominal fee. So, the readers are available all over the country, but whether or not your local facilities have them depends on their philosophy. Recently, universal readers, which can identify any microchip, no matter who made it, have also become available. To find out where microchip readers are available in your area, talk to your veterinarian, your local veterinary association, or the animal control officer in your region. Regardless of where readers are available, experts recommend that pets have as many forms of identification (ie, tag, tattoo, microchip, etc.) as possible to increase the odds of a successful return.

Myth # 4: Microchips can migrate through the body, resulting in harm to your pet. Truth: While it is true that microchips may shift position following implantation, this is very unlikely due to the microchip’s design, which keeps it from moving. Ensuring that the veterinarian implants it properly and keeping your pet quiet for the first 24 hours after it has been implanted also helps. Even if the microchip moves, it won’t move far. The microchip will still be readable. Because the microchip is placed under the skin and not internally, reading it will not have any sort of health impact on your pet.

Should you have any further questions, please consult your veterinarian.