Microchipping

Microchips are tiny electronic chips sealed in a glass capsule – the entire unit is about the size of a grain of rice. When a chip reader is passed, it senses the code that corresponds to your information. It is a constant portable ID for your dog. We microchip dogs at all stages of life, do not feel it is simply for puppies.

Why is it a good idea to microchip my dog?

The simplest reason to microchip your dog is so you don’t lose them. Depending on your municipality, lifetime licenses may be purchased with microchip and spay/neuter. Chips can be read and interpreted even when travelling. In fact, many countries require microchip identification if bringing your dog into that nation.

How does a microchipping work and is it safe for my dog?

Microchips work by a radio frequency that is detected by a scanner, it has no batteries in the capsule that holds the chip. The scanner finds the chip’s signal and shows an alpha-numeric code. The code is connected to the chip registration which provides your contact information. Safety data from the United Kingdom found a very low frequency of issues – the most common one being the migration of the chip (WSAVA).

How much does it cost to microchip a dog?

When choosing a chip, confirm it is an ISO (International Organization for Standardization) chip if expecting to travel. We choose an ISO chip, so it can be recognized internationally but also to ensure it has the best chance of identification regardless of the kind of chip reader a shelter may have. This time is also good to investigate if the company you use will allow you to change your information without additional fees.