Should You Microchip Your Pets?

If you’ve ever had a pet wander off, even for just a few minutes, you know that sinking feeling of panic. A lost pet is everyone’s worst nightmare. So, as a precaution, many of us turn to microchipping as a way to ensure our furry friends are returned home safely. 

But, is a pet microchip the right choice for your dog or cat? Together, let’s review the pros and cons so you can make the best decision for your fur baby. 

Why You Should Microchip Your Pets

In a moment, we’re going to see how the pros greatly outweigh the cons. A pet microchip is a small, rice-sized device implanted under your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. 

It contains a unique identification number that can be scanned by a vet or animal shelter. This number is linked to your contact information in a pet microchip lookup database, making it easier for lost pets to be reunited with their owners. Here are some of the pros that come with this system. 

Increased Chances of Reuniting With Your Pet

The biggest advantage of microchipping is its effectiveness in getting lost pets back home. Unlike collars and tags, which can break or fall off, a microchip is a permanent form of identification. 

Studies show that microchipped dogs are more than twice as likely to be returned home, and microchipping cats increases their chances of reunion by nearly 20 times compared to non-microchipped cats.

Quick and Simple Procedure

Microchipping is a fast and minimally invasive process. A vet injects the microchip under your pet’s skin using a syringe, much like a routine vaccination. No surgery or anesthesia is required, and most pets don’t even notice it.

Works for a Lifetime

Unlike collars or tags, which wear out or need replacing, a microchip lasts for your pet’s lifetime. Once implanted, it requires no maintenance, and you only need to update your contact information in the database if you move or change your phone number.

Proof of Ownership

If a pet dispute arises or someone tries to claim your pet as their own, a registered microchip can serve as legal proof of ownership. This can be especially helpful in cases of theft.

Helps in Emergency Situations

If your pet is found injured and taken to a vet or shelter, a quick pet microchip lookup can connect them to you so you can be notified right away. This can be crucial in getting your pet the care they need in a timely manner.

Downsides of Microchipping Your Pet

With so many pros, it's hard to argue against microchipping, but there are some downsides to consider.

Not a GPS Tracker

With all the pros out of the way, we have to mention one common misconception: a lot of people tend to think a pet microchip works like a GPS tracker. But, it doesn’t. Microchips only work when scanned at a vet’s office or animal shelter, so they won’t help you track your pet’s location in real-time.

Not Always Effective

Although microchipping is a great tool, it’s not foolproof. If your pet’s microchip isn’t registered or the contact information is outdated, a pet microchip lookup won’t be able to link your pet back to you. Also, not all scanners are compatible with all microchips, which can sometimes cause problems when scanning.

Not Free

The cost of microchipping varies, but it typically ranges from $25 to $50. Some shelters include microchipping in adoption fees but, if not, this can be an added expense. And, while it’s a one-time fee, some databases charge an additional fee to update or maintain contact information.

Not Without Potential Health Risks

While rare, there are some health concerns associated with microchipping. In extremely rare cases, pets have experienced infections, swelling, or migration of the microchip to a different location under the skin. Some owners worry about a possible link between microchips and tumors, but the risk appears to be very, very low and no causal effect has been proven.

Is Microchipping Right for Your Pet?

Microchipping is generally considered a safe and effective way to improve the chances of finding a lost pet. However, it’s important to weigh the benefits against the potential risks and decide what’s best for your fur baby. 

Keeping your pet’s microchip information updated and combining it with a collar and tag can provide the best chance of a happy reunion if they ever go missing.

What Will You Decide?

In the end, we all want to keep our beloved babies safe. Whether you choose a pet microchip, a GPS collar, or another identification method, the key is to have a reliable plan in place. Just a little precaution can make all the difference in bringing your pal back home where they belong.

Here at Your Life Buzz, we love taking care of our pets’ health as much as our own. Keep coming back for more innovative ways to keep them happy, healthy, comfy, and – most of all – safe.