Does your dog love to escape? What about your cat? If they’re an outdoor cat, they may be gone for days at a time, surveying their territory. Collars and ID tags can be lost or removed, so what can you do to ensure that they have the right information on them at all times? Microchipping can provide peace of mind in this matter. If Fido runs away and is found by a helpful stranger, they can bring that pup to animal control or a shelter. There, they’ll be able to scan the microchip you installed. Voila! Fido will be returned home safely. Now, let’s explore the pros and cons of microchipping your pet, as it’s not for everyone.
What Is Microchipping?
A microchip is a small device that’s implanted beneath your pet’s skin. Often, this is done between the shoulder blades. They’re surrounded by a bio-glass sleeve, which is safe for both pets and humans. The information stored on the device can be viewed using a specific type of scanner, as the chip emits a radio frequency. However, you must remember to register your chip with an agency so that they can pull the information up when they need to.
Pros
There’s a long list of benefits when it comes to microchipping your pet, but we’re only going to discuss the popular pros. Let’s dive in, shall we?
· Reunite With Your Furry Friend
Of course, the main benefit of microchipping your pet is to increase the chance of them being returned to you. It’s much better than having them live at the pound for weeks until you find them or even being adopted by a stranger because there was no identification on them.
· Quick And Almost Painless
The installation process only lasts a few seconds. The most pain they should feel is a slight pinch. There’s not a reason to hold them down. You can distract them with treats and attention while the vet places the chip in between their shoulder blades. They won’t even be sore afterward.
· Lost-Proof
Tags and collars can easily be removed by the pet or another person. They can get caught on passing branches while they wander through the woods, which can lead to them being trapped in a place that you can’t reach. Microchips won’t get lost or snag on dangerous branches and bushes.
· National Reach
Since the database is national, you don’t have to worry about your pet crossing state lines. Their microchip can be scanned in any state and offer the same information. However, if your curious pooch explores international territory, you might not be so lucky. They have different databases, so your information won’t come up when their chip is scanned.
· Proof Of Ownership
Sadly, there are people who steal pets. They can easily remove collars and ID tags, but they can’t remove the microchip…safely that is. So, if you can get your pet scanned, it will provide you with proof of ownership and send those thieves on their merry way.
· They Last A Lifetime
Microchips can last up to twenty five years, so you should only have to install it once during your pet’s lifetime. There are always a lucky few who live past this deadline, but they’re usually not in any shape to run away. By this time, they’re content with belly rubs and snuggles alone.
Cons
With every good thing, comes some downfalls. Microchips aren’t perfect, and they’re certainly not meant for everyone. Let’s explore the cons, so you can make an informed decision of your own.
· Chips Can Move
There have been a few cases where the chip has been dislodged from its spot between the shoulder blades. With movement comes the possibility that the scanner won’t be able to find the microchip, which means that you aren’t contacted. However, this does not pose a health risk to the pet.
· Require Special Scanners
Some chips require specific scanners, such as the Avid chip. Not every animal control officer will have one, which means the chip might be missed. There are universal scanners that can register most chips, but again, it depends on what kind of scanner the officer has.
· It’s Not A GPS
Despite its technological benefits, it’s not a GPS. You can’t track the animal yourself, and the pet does have to be found by the right people in order for the chip to be useful. Really, it’s just a permanent ID tag that eliminates the chances of the information being lost or stolen.
· Rare Health Risks
With this great tool, comes some rare health risks. Inflammation around the insertion site has been seen. However, this usually clears up quickly. The main unknown is the risk of cancer. There have been a handful of cases that involved the microchipped dog developing cancer. Although, we are yet to find out if it was related to the chip or simply coincidence.
