Did you know that millions of pets are lost or stolen every year? In fact, one in three pets will go missing at some point in their lifetimes. Those are pretty frightening statistics. While we hope that your animal companion always stays safe and sound at home, it’s important to be prepared, just in case. A local Seminole, FL vet offers some advice on this topic below.
Microchipping your pet is a very quick and simple process, and one that will only take a few minutes. However, it could have a huge effect on your beloved pet’s life! Microchips are technically radio-frequency identification transponders. They do not contain any actual records and, unfortunately, they won’t reprogram Fido to stop chewing your shoes. Each chip transmits only a unique identification number. This can be read with special scanners used by veterinarians and animal shelter staff. If a chip is found, that ID number can be used to connect you and your furry friend in the chipmaker’s database.
Getting the chip is just the first part of the process. You’ll also need to make sure that your information is correct in the chipmaker’s database. Remember to update these records any time you move or change contact information. (Tip: try using the AAHA Universal Pet Microchip Lookup Tool here to check yours.) We also recommend having your vet check the chip during your pet’s regular appointments, just to confirm it hasn’t moved or stopped working.
Microchips are great, but your pet isn’t off the hook for wearing ID tags. Tags are required by law in many places. Plus, they’re the easiest way for someone to contact you if they find your pet. If you’re concerned about your furry pal getting stuck on something, opt for a breakaway collar.
You may have noticed that there are many different GPS-enabled collars and devices available for pets. These aren’t exactly ID, but they can be great to have, especially if you have a pooch that tries to run off every time he spots a squirrel. Just do some research before you purchase one. You’ll want to look at things like range, battery life, and durability. It’s also worth checking to see if you need a subscription.
As the local Seminole, FL veterinary clinic, we’re dedicated to keeping your pet happy, healthy, and safe. Please feel free to contact us anytime!
