7 Tips We Learned While Microchipping Our Pup!

When we added a new rescue pup to the Grounds & Hounds crew last summer, we learned that the rescue pup had not yet been microchipped. While it is common for animals who enter into the shelter system to be microchipped before adoption, it's not uncommon for animals to be adopted before their chipping appointment is complete. Questions tend to arise surrounding the process and purpose of microchipping your pet, so we hope our first hand experience and information can help you handle the process with confidence!

1. Microchips are not a tracking device. There is no GPS or tracking capability with the microchip. It is more similar to a UPC code on a grocery store product. They only way to access the information is with a specialized scanner. 

2. Unlike a collar, which can be lost or removed, your pup’s microchip is permanent.  While collars and tags should always be works, they are temporary and should serve as a backup form up identification in the event your pet goes missing. 

3. Microchips are injected using a hypodermic needle, no surgery or anesthesia is required. The process is extremely quick, and with the help of treats your pet won't even realized the shot has occurred (as demonstrated by our pup in the video!) 

4. The Microchip is tiny, about the size of a grain of rice. Once the chip is inserted, you will likely never be able to feel it under your pet's skin again!

5. Fully scan your pup to be sure no microchip is already present (especially rescue pups!). Occasionally, the microchip 

6. When activated by a scanner, the chip transmits your pet’s unique ID number. This number is permanent and unchangeable, so your pet will have a definite record for his or her entire life. 

7. Keep your contact info up to date with your vet’s help or the manufacturer’s registry! If your pet is ever lost, it is essential that you can be contacted by the shelter or veterinary clinic who scans the microchip. In the same way you'd update your shipping address when you move, be sure to update your microchip contact information every time your address or phone number changes.