Microchipping your pet is crucial for several important reasons:
Permanent Identification: Unlike collars and tags that can break or fall off, microchips provide permanent identification that should last for your pet's lifetime.
Reunification: Microchips significantly increase the chances of being reunited with your lost pet. When a lost pet is found, shelters and veterinarians routinely scan for microchips.
Proof of Ownership: A registered microchip can help establish proof of ownership in case of pet theft or disputes.
Travel Requirements: Many countries require pets to have microchips for international travel, making them essential for pet passports and proof of good health, immunizations, and parasite treatments.
Peace of Mind: Knowing your pet has permanent identification provides reassurance that if they ever get lost, there's a reliable way for them to be identified and returned home.
The microchipping procedure is quick, safe, and relatively painless - similar to a routine vaccination. The tiny chip (about the size of a grain of rice) is inserted under your pet's skin, typically between the shoulder blades, and contains a unique identification number that can be read by a scanner.
An ISO microchip, the most commonly accepted for international travel, is a unique 14 or 15 digit number. This type of microchip can be read by internationally standard scanners.
An AVID microchip, less common and most often found in the US, is a unique 9 digit number. This type of microchip cannot be read by an internationally standard scanner and requires a special scanner.
Some jurisdictions accept AVID microchips, but most do not and require an ISO microchip.
Remember: A microchip is only effective if the registration information is kept current. Always update your contact details if you move or change phone numbers.
Requirements vary by airline, route, and destination — always confirm current rules with your airline and the destination's official animal import authority; final acceptance rests with them.