Microchipping

What is microchipping?

Microchipping is a safe, simple and permanent form of pet identification designed to quickly identify lost pets and reunite them with their owners. It is estimated that over 10 million pets become lost each year and 1 out of every 3 pets is lost during its lifetime, while only 1 in 10 lost pets is found. Having a pet microchipped is a proven way to successfully recover a pet if it should become lost.

Is Microchipping Safe?

No bigger than a grain of rice, a microchip is small, sterile, and safe. It requires no battery and anesthesia is not necessary.

In fact, all animals that are either reclaimed or adopted from a State licensed animal shelter are now required to be chipped before they are released.

How does it Work?

A microchip is a transponder that contains a unique ID code capable of being read by hand-held scanners used by animal shelters. Microchipping takes a few seconds, is relatively painless, and is recommended for all dogs, cats and rabbits over 8 weeks of age.

A staff member takes the pet to an exam room where a technician inserts a microchip under the pet's skin between the shoulder blades. The insertion of the microchip is similar to a vaccination and, for most animals, is not painful. The information is then stored in the Department's database and by the Microchip Company.

When a lost animal is brought to a shelter, a technician scans the entire body of the animal and, if the animal is microchipped, a number will register on the scanner. A staff member will check the Department's database or call the microchip company to obtain owner information and then contact the owner.

You can have your pet microchipped at a variety of locations, including most veterinarian offices, local animal/adoption shelters and many pet stores.

If my dog has a microchip why do I need a dog license?

Dogs 4 months of age and older are required to be currently vaccinated against rabies and licensed. A dog's license tag, which must be securely fastened to the dog's collar or harness and worn by the dog at all times, provides a uniform system of external identification, as well as a visible means of ensuring that the animal has been vaccinated against rabies.

If a dog has been implanted with a microchip, we can also note the microchip number in the dog's license records, and contact the owner promptly if the dog is ever brought to the shelter - with or without external identification.

Why would an owner want to microchip their pet?

A dog should always wear his or her license tag. However, collars or I.D. tags can become detached leaving the pet without any visible identification. A microchip is a permanent device that enables shelter personnel to locate a pet's owner should the pet become lost.

Why would an owner want to microchip their pet that never gets out of the house or yard?

Many animals that live exclusively in the house or yard can still become lost. A family member or visitor can inadvertently allow a pet to escape through an open door or gate. In other cases, pets may seek safety from the noise associated with fireworks or thunderstorms. The recent tragedy of Hurricane Katrina is a perfect example of why pets should be microchipped. Owners should be prepared and ensure their pets can be identified.

How long does the microchip last?

Microchips will remain active for the life of the animal.

Can an owner's address information be updated if he or she moves?

Yes. This is extremely important. The owner should contact the office/company where the microchip was inserted along with the Microchip Company to ensure that both databases contain current information.