As pet owners, we do everything in our power to keep our furry friends safe and healthy. From regular vet checkups to providing the best food, we want our pets to thrive. But despite our best efforts, accidents can happen—pets can get lost, wander off, or even be stolen. In these unfortunate instances, microchipping your pet can make all the difference. Here at Madison Animal Care Hospital, we encourage pet owners to take advantage of this simple yet highly effective technology that significantly increases the chances of being reunited with your pet.
What Is Microchipping?
Microchipping involves implanting a small electronic chip, about the size of a grain of rice, under your pet’s skin, usually between their shoulder blades. This chip contains a unique identification number that, when scanned by a vet or animal shelter, links back to your contact information in a national pet recovery database. Unlike collars and tags, which can be lost or removed, a microchip provides permanent identification for your pet.
Increases the Chances of Reunion
Microchipped pets are more likely to be reunited with their families if they get lost. Studies show that dogs with microchips are returned to their owners 52.2% of the time, compared to just 21.9% without. For cats, the numbers are even more striking—38.5% of microchipped cats find their way home, compared to just 1.8% without a chip. A microchip significantly increases the likelihood that your lost pet will be safely returned to you.
A Permanent, Reliable ID
Unlike collars and tags that can break, wear out, or be taken off, a microchip is a permanent method of identifying your pet. The chip is inserted safely beneath the skin and stays there for life, meaning there’s no need to worry about replacing it or having it fall off. This gives you peace of mind knowing that no matter where your pet goes, they’ll always have a reliable form of identification.
Quick and Painless Process
Microchipping is a quick, virtually painless procedure that can be done during a routine visit to Madison Animal Care Hospital. The process takes just seconds, and no anesthesia is required. Pets typically experience minimal discomfort—similar to receiving a vaccination—and once implanted, they won’t even notice the chip.
Supports Responsible Pet Ownership
Microchipping not only ensures your pet’s safety but also contributes to responsible pet ownership. If your pet is found wandering or gets into trouble, their microchip helps authorities quickly identify and contact you. This reduces the chances of your pet being held in a shelter or, in rare cases, mistaken for a stray.
Invaluable for Travel
If you plan on traveling with your pet, especially internationally, many countries require pets to be microchipped before entry. Having your pet microchipped ensures that they meet these requirements, preventing any complications or delays in your travel plans. Additionally, if your pet gets lost in an unfamiliar area, the microchip increases the odds of a safe and timely reunion.
Peace of Mind
The knowledge that your pet can be identified and returned to you even if they become lost is invaluable. Microchipping provides an extra layer of security, so whether your pet escapes the backyard or accidentally wanders too far during an outdoor adventure, you’ll have the peace of mind knowing that your pet has a better chance of being safely returned.
Book Your Pet’s Appointment at Madison Animal Care Hospital Today
At Madison Animal Care Hospital, we’re committed to helping you keep your pets safe, and microchipping is a critical part of that effort. Microchipping is a simple, cost-effective way to ensure your pet’s safety, providing peace of mind for you and increasing the chances of a happy reunion if your pet ever gets lost.
To learn more about microchipping or to schedule an appointment, contact Madison Animal Care Hospital. Visit our facility in Madison, Alabama, or call (256) 461-7575 to book an appointment today.