Post by muskyhusky on Oct 19, 2008 21:25:27 GMT -6
How it Works
A microchip is about the size of a grain of rice. It consists of a tiny computer chip housed in a type of glass made to be compatible with living tissue. The microchip is implanted between the dog's shoulder blades under the skin with a needle and special syringe. The process is similar to getting a shot. Little to no pain is experienced -- most dogs do not seem to even feel it being implanted. Once in place, the microchip can be detected immediately with a handheld device that uses radio waves to read the chip. This device scans the microchip, and then displays a unique alphanumeric code. The dog must then be registered with the microchip company, usually for a one-time fee. The the dog can be traced back to the owner if found.
Things You Should Know
No method of identification is perfect. The best thing you can do to protect your dog is to be a responsible owner.
Keep current identification tags on your dog at all times, consider microchipping as reinforcement, and never allow your dog to roam free.
If your dog does become lost, more identification can increase the odds of finding your beloved companion.
A microchip is about the size of a grain of rice. It consists of a tiny computer chip housed in a type of glass made to be compatible with living tissue. The microchip is implanted between the dog's shoulder blades under the skin with a needle and special syringe. The process is similar to getting a shot. Little to no pain is experienced -- most dogs do not seem to even feel it being implanted. Once in place, the microchip can be detected immediately with a handheld device that uses radio waves to read the chip. This device scans the microchip, and then displays a unique alphanumeric code. The dog must then be registered with the microchip company, usually for a one-time fee. The the dog can be traced back to the owner if found.
Things You Should Know
- Microchips are designed to last for the life of a dog. They do not need to be charged or replaced.
- Some microchips have been known to migrate from the area between the shoulder blades, but the instructions for scanning emphasize the need to scan the dog’s entire body.
- A microchipped dog can be easily identified if found by a shelter or veterinary office in possession of a scanner. However, some shelters and veterinary offices do not possess scanners.
- Depending on the brand of microchip and the year it was implanted, even so-called universal scanners may not be able to detect the microchip.
- Microchip manufacturers, veterinarians and animal shelters have been working on solutions to the imperfections, and technology continues to improve over time.
No method of identification is perfect. The best thing you can do to protect your dog is to be a responsible owner.
Keep current identification tags on your dog at all times, consider microchipping as reinforcement, and never allow your dog to roam free.
If your dog does become lost, more identification can increase the odds of finding your beloved companion.