Pet Microchipping
Every year, millions of pets are lost in the U.S., and many are never reunited with their families. However, by microchipping your companion in Redondo Beach, CA, you can give them a far stronger chance of making it home should they ever go missing.
What Is a Pet Microchip?
A pet microchip is a small, permanent identification device, about the size of a grain of rice. Encased in a biocompatible capsule, it remains safely under your pet’s skin for life. The device holds enough charge to last for their entire lifetime, meaning once the microchip is implanted it will never have to be adjusted, recharged, or replaced.
How Does Microchipping Work?
Microchips are inserted using a special needle, usually between your pet’s shoulder blades. The process is quick, with minimal discomfort, much like a routine vaccination. Each microchip contains a unique ID number. If your pet is found and taken to a vet or shelter, staff can use a scanner to retrieve the number and access your contact information from a national database.
After your pet is microchipped, you’ll need to register your contact details with a national microchip registry. Your veterinarian will provide instructions on how to do this. Remember to update your information if you move or change phone numbers.
Why Choose a Microchip Over an ID Tag?
ID tags can fall off, wear down, or be intentionally removed. Microchips, on the other hand, are a permanent form of identification that cannot be lost, damaged, or tampered with.
The benefits of microchipping are backed by data. According to the AVMA:
- Cats with microchips are reunited with their families 38.5% of the time, compared to only 1.8% of unmicrochipped cats.
- Dogs with microchips are returned home 52.2% of the time, while only 21.9% of unmicrochipped dogs are reunited with their owners.
Schedule Your Pet’s Microchipping Appointment Today
No one expects to be separated from their pet, but accidents happen doors can accidentally be left open, fences can break, or your pet might get spooked by fireworks. If your pet isn’t microchipped, we strongly recommend booking an appointment at Pacific Animal Hospital today. We’ll microchip your pet and help you register their ID in the national database to ensure their safe return if they ever go missing.