Microchipping 101 for New Pet Owners

If you’re new to pet ownership, you may not have heard of microchips. Look no further! Here, your Fort Myers, FL veterinarian tells you all about this essential preventative healthcare measure.

What’s a Microchip, Anyway?

A microchip itself is a tiny computer chip with a number implanted on it electronically. This number corresponds to the chip manufacturer’s database, where your pet’s contact information is stored.

The microchip is implanted underneath your pet’s skin, where it remains until removed by a veterinary professional. When a lost pet is returned to an animal shelter or vet’s office, special scanners there can read the chip’s number, allowing the veterinary professionals to see who the pet belongs to and get them returned quickly and easily.

What Are The Benefits of Microchips?

The main benefit of outfitting your pet with a microchip is that your animal companion will be constantly and securely identified, even if an escape occurs unexpectedly. Unlike collars with ID tags attached to them, a microchip cannot be removed—accidentally or on purpose—by your pet. The peace of mind this brings is well worth it!

Another benefit of microchips is that they’re easy to have updated should you have a change of address or telephone number. You don’t have to buy an entirely new chip; simply contact the microchip manufacturer and have them update their database.

What’s the Procedure Like?

The microchip is fitted inside of a small glass capsule. The unit is then inserted just under your pet’s first few layers of skin (usually between the shoulder blades) with a specialized syringe. All your pet will feel is a momentary pinching sensation before the whole thing is over. All in all, it’s just like a regular vaccination!

Is There Any Possibility of Side Effects?

The microchipping procedure is almost entirely risk-free, and side effects are very rare. However, it is possible for minor swelling or irritation to occur at the insertion site. If this happens, all you have to do is let your veterinarian’s office know. Such symptoms can easily be treated by a veterinary professional.

How Do I Get My Pet a Microchip?

Do you have further questions about pet identification and microchips? Are you ready to have your pet outfitted with a chip for a lifetime of proper identification? Your Fort Myers, FL animal hospital performs the procedure in-house, so call the office today to make an appointment.