Though we keep a watchful eye on our pets, there is always the chance that one might slip away and get lost. Microchipping your pet can help increase the chances of returning it to you if found. Speak with a veterinarian with us at Perkins Veterinary Clinic serving Perkins, OK, and Stillwater, OK, for more information about microchipping options.
What Is a Microchip?
A microchip is a small implant placed in your pet to help provide identification information if your pet is found after getting away from you. The chip is no larger than a grain of rice and is implanted in your pet's shoulder area. The microchip gives off a radio frequency that gives an identification number when correctly scanned. The number can be cross-checked in a database that reveals your pet's name, your name, and contact information. Since there is no battery or internal power source for the chip, it sits inactive in your pet until the appropriate microchip scanner reads it.
How Is Microchipping Done?
A pet microchip is a sterile RFID chip about the size of a grain of rice, which gets injected under your pet's skin. A vet on our team will inject the microchip under your pet's skin, similar to how vaccinations are administered. The standard placement for a microchip is in the back between the shoulder blades. When scanned, the microchip relays a number to the scanner, which then can be used to identify the pet and get the contact owners of the pet.
Is Microchipping Painful?
Microchipping is a fast and safe procedure that appears to be relatively pain-free in most pets. In most cases, the chips are inserted with no incident, even in kittens and puppies. The process uses a large needle and is administered similarly to routine vaccinations. Many pets do not show any discomfort and continue their day as usual.
Visit Us for More Information
If your pet is not microchipped, it may be a good idea to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian to have one inserted. Pets with microchips can also have their chips regularly scanned to ensure the information is correct and the chip is still functioning. Our veterinary care team at Perkins Veterinary Clinic in Perkins, OK, and Stillwater, OK, can help provide you with the information needed about microchipping your pet. Call our office at (405) 547-2442 to schedule an appointment with one of our veterinarians.
