Microchipping identification for Dogs and Cats


Microchipping is recognized as the most effective and secure way
of permanently identifying a pet with microchip technology. This has
been around since 1989 and since then approximately 1.5 million
dogs and cats have been microchipped.



What is microchipping?

The microchip is the size of a grain of rice and is encased in a
biocompatible glass, the same used in human pacemakers, to
prevent rejection from the animals body.
In dogs, the microchip is inserted into the loose skin on the
back of the dog's neck using a specially designed implanting
device. Insertion is a quick and easy process that causes no more
discomfort than a usual vaccination.



How does the microchip work?

Each microchip carries a unique number that is logged onto a
national database. Against this number key information is stored
about the dog and its owner including the dog's name, the owner's
name and address and a record of the dog's vaccinations.

When a scanner is passed over the microchip low frequency radio
waves created by the scanner activate the microchip, allowing the
unique number to be read.


Where can I have my dog or cat microchipped?

Contact your local veterinary surgery, animal shelter, or dog
control officer for advice and prices.


How long does a microchip last?

Microchipping is an inexpensive investment as it should last for
the life of your dog or cat.



Does my dog or cat have to be a particular age before it can be
chipped?

It is recommended that a dog or cat have their final vaccinations
before being microchipped.


Will implanting the chip hurt my dog or cat?

Not at all, microchipping is a quick and painless procedure that
should not hurt more than the pet’s vaccinations.


Here are some companies that provide micro-chipping services:

American Veterinary ID Devices (AVID)
(800) 336-AVID
www.avid.com

IDENTICHIP:
(800) 926-1313
www.identichip.com

Home Again
(800) 926-1313
info@akc.org

Companion Animal Recovery
(800) 252-7894
www.akccar.org

PetNet
(800) 738-6385
www.petnet.ca

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