One of my friends, who has a Black Labrador Retriever puppy named Hutch, asked me recently “should I get my dog microchipped?”. We chatted and came up with the correct answer for his situation, so I decided to write an article regarding many of the questions people have about this exact topic. That being said, here are some facts as well as answers to some of the FAQs (and some not so frequently asked questions too) on whether you should get your dog microchipped or not.
Q: What is a microchip?
A: A microchip is a tiny electronic chip inside a glass cylinder, about the size of a grain of rice. It has no battery and is activated by a scanner. When scanned, the chip sends an identification number to the scanner, which displays it on the screen. Microchips can also be called transponders.
Q: How is a microchip implanted?
A: A microchip is injected under the skin with a needle, similar to a vaccine shot and is no more painful than one either. The needle is slightly larger than usual, but it doesn’t require surgery or anesthesia. It can be done during a regular vet visit or while your pet is already under anesthesia for another procedure.
Q: What information is in a microchip? Can it track my pet?
A: A microchip only contains an identification number—it is not a GPS tracker. Some microchip databases allow you to add medical details, but the chip itself does not store any medical information.
Q: Can someone track me if my pet is microchipped?
A: No, microchips do not contain personal information. The chip’s number is linked to your contact details in a secure database, and only authorized personnel (like shelters or vets) can access it. You can choose what information to provide and update it as needed.
Q: What is “microchip frequency”?
A: Microchip frequency refers to the radio wave used to activate and read the chip. Common frequencies in the U.S. are 125 kHz, 128 kHz, and 134.2 kHz.
Q: What does “ISO standard” mean?
A: The International Standards Organization (ISO) created a global microchip standard so that chips can be read worldwide. If your pet has an ISO-standard chip (134.2 kHz), it can be scanned in other countries. Some scanners cannot read non-ISO chips, making them harder to detect.
Q: What is a universal scanner? How is it different?
A: Universal scanners, also called forward-and-backward-reading scanners, can read all microchip frequencies. Some scanners only read 134.2 kHz (ISO chips) and cannot detect other frequencies. Universal scanners increase the chances of detecting a microchip, no matter the type.
Q: How does a microchip help find a lost pet?
A: If a lost pet is taken to a shelter or vet, they will scan it for a microchip. If the chip is registered with correct contact details, they can quickly find the owner.
Q: Does microchipping really help reunite lost pets with owners?
A: Yes! A study of over 7,700 stray pets found that microchipped dogs were returned at more than twice the rate of non-microchipped dogs. For cats, the difference was even greater. However, if your contact information is missing or outdated, the chip won’t help, so keep it updated!
Q: Do I still need ID and rabies tags if my pet is microchipped?
A: Yes! Microchips provide permanent ID, but collar tags are the fastest way to identify a lost pet. Rabies tags show proof of vaccination and help track an owner, but microchip databases are available 24/7, unlike rabies records.
Q: I adopted a pet from a shelter. Is it microchipped?
A: Many shelters microchip their animals before adoption. Ask the shelter for the microchip number and make sure it’s registered to you. If you’re unsure, your vet can scan your pet to check. Microchips also show up on X-rays.
Q: Why should I microchip my pet?
A: Microchipping greatly increases the chances of being reunited with your pet if they get lost or stolen.
Q: Where can I get my pet microchipped?
A: Most veterinary clinics offer microchipping, and some shelters or pet stores host microchipping events.
Q: Can I implant a microchip myself?
A: No. While it looks simple, improper placement can make the chip hard to detect or even cause serious health issues. A veterinarian should implant the microchip to ensure it’s done safely.
Q: Do I need to monitor my pet after microchipping?
A: Yes. Follow your vet’s advice and watch for swelling, redness, or oozing at the implant site. If anything looks unusual, contact your vet.
Q: How do I maintain my pet’s microchip?
A: Register the microchip with your contact details.
Have your vet scan it annually to ensure it still works.
Keep your information updated—especially if you move or change phone numbers.
August 15 is Check the Chip Day—a great time to verify your pet’s registration!
Q: What if a shelter misses my pet’s microchip?
A: This was more common in the past but is rare today due to universal scanners. While no system is perfect, microchips significantly increase the chances of your pet being returned.
Q: Why might a microchip not be detected?
A: Reasons include:
- Chip failure (rare)
- Scanner issues (uncommon)
- Human error (improper scanning)
- Thick fur, excess fat, or metal collars interfering with the scan
Q: My pet has two microchips with different frequencies. Should I remove one?
A: No, they won’t interfere with each other. Just make sure both chips are registered with your correct contact information.
Q: My pet has a non-ISO chip (125 kHz). Can I add an ISO chip (134.2 kHz)?
A: Yes, and both will work.
Q: I’m moving to a country that requires ISO chips. What should I do?
A: If your pet doesn’t have an ISO (134.2 kHz) chip, they may need one before entering the country. Check all import rules for vaccinations and quarantine requirements. A pet relocation service can help.
Q: Why don’t all shelters and vets use the same microchips and scanners?
A: There are no U.S. laws requiring one type of chip or scanner. Companies create different microchips, and shelters/vets choose which ones to use. Universal scanners solve this issue by detecting all chip types.
Q: Is there a single database for microchip information?
A: No, each manufacturer has its own database. However, the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) has a universal lookup tool that helps locate the correct database.
Q: What are the risks of microchipping?
A: Problems are rare, but they can include:
- Chip migration (moving from the original site)
- Chip failure (very rare)
- Mild swelling, hair loss, or infection
- Tumors (extremely rare, with no proven link to microchips)
Q: Do microchips cause cancer?
A: There is no clear proof that microchips cause cancer.
Q: Should I remove my pet’s microchip to avoid cancer?
A: No. The risk of cancer is very low, while the benefit of reuniting with a lost pet is much higher. Removing a microchip is more complicated than implanting one.
Q: Are the benefits of microchipping worth the risks?
A: Yes! While no system is perfect, microchipping greatly improves the chances of finding a lost pet. Shelters and vets are aware of the risks of missing a microchip and are using better scanning technology every year.
So, should I get my dog microchipped?
In my friends case, he has decided to wait and see if Hutch calms down a bit with age and after he is neutered. Hutch is a very energetic pup that likes to chase the neighbors (in a playful way) when they come by the house on a quad or side by side. Fortunately, my friend lives in the woods on 10 acres, so besides the neighbors riding the trails, he doesn’t get much traffic at all.
Deciding, is an individual decision depending on your pet’s lifestyle and your comfort with the procedure. Weigh the ability to recover your pet against the low chance of complications. A well-informed decision is key to ensuring your dog’s safety and your peace of mind.
Remember, always consult your veterinarian before deciding on microchipping your beloved pet.
And as always, feel free to post any questions or comments you have regarding this or any other topics related to our furry family members!
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