Microchipping of Animals FAQ

If you’ve wondered about microchipping your pet, you likely have a number of questions and the following information should be able to answer a few of them for you:

1. What is a microchip? It’s important to understand exactly what this is so that you can decide if it is right for you and your pet. A microchip is a small, electronic chip that is enclosed in a glass cylinder and is roughly about the same size as a grain of rice. The chip itself does not contain a battery and is activated by a scanner that is passed over the area and it is through the radio waves that are put out by the scanner that the chip becomes activated. The microchip is also referred to as a transponder and transmits the identification number to the scanner, which then displays it on the screen.
2. How is a microchip implanted into the animal? It’s natural to wonder about the pain factor and whether or not the process will hurt your pet. The microchip is injected under the skin using a hypodermic needle and is no more painful than any other kind of typical injection. The needle is slightly larger, however, no surgery or anesthesia is required and the microchip can be implanted during a regular veterinary clinic visit.
3. What kind of information will the microchip contain and does it include a tracking device? Identification numbers are the only information that these microchips contain and are unable to track your pet if they were to get lost because a microchip is not a GPS device. While the present technology in the microchips does not contain any of your pet’s medical information, some of the registration databases may allow you to store that information in the database for quick reference.
4. Do I need to be concerned about my privacy if my pet is microchipped and would someone have the ability to track me down? The information provided to the manufacturer’s microchip registry will only be used to contact you in the event that your pet is found and their microchip is scanned. You may receive newsletters and advertisements from the manufacturer but can choose to decline communication. Only information that you choose to provide will be contained in the database and protective measures are in place so that random people cannot see the pet owner’s identification. Keep in mind that only when a microchip is registered will you have a better chance of getting your pet back, so if your information is missing or incorrect, it will affect your chances.

If this is something you’ve been considering, it is best to discuss it with your vet because they can provide their professional opinion. Hofmann Veterinary Clinic is a reputable animal hospital and we will ensure your pet’s health is in order. If you are in the Bampton, Etobicoke, or Woodbridge areas and want peace of mind knowing your pet is in good hands, contact us today to book an appointment!