At Brownswitch Pet Hospital, we like to include microchipping as part of one of your first wellness visits with us to ensure you and your pet can stay happily together. Many of our patients have asked “why should I microchip my pet,” and we wanted to give you some more information about the benefits of this procedure for you and your furry friends.
Microchipping Is Simple & Effective
Your veterinarian can painlessly implant a chip that is smaller than a grain of rice into your pet’s shoulder. You can add your contact information to the chip so someone can find you if you and your pet ever get separated from each other. Although these chips do not have actual GPS coordinates, someone can scan your pet for a microchip and easily find a contact number to ensure you and your pet are reunited. Microchips cause no more discomfort for your pets than routine vaccinations.
Microchipping Increases Your Chances of a Reunion
In a study on 7,700 shelter animals, researchers found that dogs without microchips were only returned to their owners about 22 percent of the time, while those with microchips were reunited 52 percent. There was about a 30 percent increase in cats being reunited when they had a microchip as opposed to those that did not have one.
Microchips Are Easy to Update
Whether you move to a new state or a new building, the information on your pet’s microchip is easy to update. Simply contact the microchip company and provide them with your new information. You can also talk to your veterinarian if you are having trouble making the updates. Moving can be stressful for pets, and they might be more likely to try to run away while you are en route to your new location. An updated microchip gives you peace of mind that you have a better chance of coming back together if you do happen to get separated.
Brownswitch Pet Hospital is always here to help you with all of your veterinary health needs. From microchipping to surgery, we offer a range of services designed to keep your pets healthy and happy. Call (985) 646-2025 to learn more.