| $ Microchip Registration: $0 - $20 | $ $ Microchipping a Pet: $40 - $50 |
One of the most common things that might happen when you have a pet, especially when we talk about cats and dogs, is that they can get lost.
In some cases, they leave the house and don’t know how to return, or something happens while being outdoors and we can’t find them anymore.
If you have ever had a pet that went missing, you’ll understand how heartbreaking it feels not to know if you’ll ever see your pet again, if it’s healthy and safe, or what happened.
Having your pet microchipped could make all the difference in the world if something like this ever happens.
In the next few sections, we’ll discuss some of the basic facts about microchipping a pet and how much it costs.
Table of Contents
What’s a Pet Microchip?
A microchip is a Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID), about the size of a grain of rice with a personal identification number that allows pets to be identified through the owner’s information registered under that number.
Since its introduction in the market more than 30 years ago, pet microchips have reunited countless pets with their rightful owners.
Does My Pet Need a Microchip?
In some countries, it’s mandatory to have your pet microchipped.
But even if you’re not legally obligated to do so, it’s highly recommended by veterinarians.
If something happens and your pet goes missing, the people that find it can take your pet to a shelter or to a vet’s office where they’ll be able to scan the microchip and get the ID number to contact you.
Can All Pets Be Microchipped?
Although it’s commonly used in cats and dogs, other pets can also be microchipped.
This includes birds, reptiles, rabbits, ferrets, and even horses and livestock.
How Does a Pet Microchip Work?
The tiny device will be inserted under the skin of your pet using a needle, so it’s not painful and doesn’t require any special attention. Microchips don’t have batteries and they usually last an average of 25 years.
The microchip may move under the skin of your pet, but this won’t have any consequences.
In very rare cases, pets can react to the microchip, but again, it’s very rare.
If this happens, the first thing to do is to take the pet to the vet, so they can check it and make sure your pet is well.
Once your pet has the microchip inserted under its skin, you will then have to register it using a pet recovery database.
This can be done with the same company of the microchip or a different one.
If your pet gets lost and somebody finds it, they will be able to get your contact information once they have scanned your pet’s microchip at a local shelter or vet’s office.
If you move or if you adopt a pet that already has a microchip, you must update the information on that register so they can contact you if anything happens.
Does a Microchip Track My Pet?
It’s important to clarify this since there has been a misunderstanding about what microchips can do.
Microchips do not allow you to track your pet as a GPS (Global Positioning System) device would.
A microchip is only used to identify your pet and connect that ID number to your contact information.
Only if your pet’s microchip is scanned and if you have registered it, it will be possible to connect you with your pet.
How Much Does a Pet Microchip Cost?
Generally, you’ll have to pay for two things, the microchip, and the online registration.
You can get your pet microchipped at a vet’s office, pet stores, or even local shelters that provide that service.
The cost may vary according to the city or town where you live and where you get the microchip implanted in your pet, but it usually costs from $40 to $50.
Then you’ll have to register your pet’s device, which most companies charge a lifetime fee of $20.
However, there are foundations or non-profit organizations that offer to register your pet’s microchip in their database for free, so it’s something to consider.
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