Pet Microchipping

Pet microchipping is the implantation of a tiny radio-frequency identification (RFID) chip — about the size of a grain of rice — under your pet’s skin. The chip stores a unique ID number that, when scanned, links to your contact information in a national pet recovery database, helping reunite lost pets with their owners.

What Is Pet Microchipping?

A pet microchip is a passive RFID transponder enclosed in biocompatible glass. It’s injected under the skin between the shoulder blades using a hypodermic needle — similar to a routine vaccination. The chip itself has no battery and no GPS; it only activates when a compatible scanner passes over it.

Each chip contains a unique identification number (typically 15 digits) registered in a database like the AAHA Universal Pet Microchip Lookup tool. When a lost pet is found and scanned at a shelter, vet clinic, or animal control office, the ID number pulls up the owner’s contact information.

Microchipping is recognized by the AVMA, ASPCA, and Humane Society as one of the most effective ways to ensure a lost pet is returned home. Studies show microchipped dogs are returned to their owners 52% of the time, compared to 22% for dogs without chips.

How Microchipping Works

The procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and can be done during a regular vet visit:

• Implantation: A vet or trained technician injects the chip between the shoulder blades. No anesthesia is needed — most pets react less than they do to a standard vaccination.
• Registration: The chip’s unique ID is registered in a national database with your name, address, phone number, and email.
• Scanning: Universal scanners at shelters and vet clinics can read chips from all major manufacturers.

The chip lasts the lifetime of your pet with no maintenance required. However, you must keep your registration information updated if you move or change phone numbers.

Why Microchipping Matters

Collars and tags can fall off, break, or become unreadable. A microchip is a permanent form of identification that cannot be lost, removed, or damaged. Key statistics:

• 1 in 3 pets will get lost during their lifetime
• Only about 22% of lost dogs entering shelters are reunited with families — that jumps to 52% with a microchip
• For cats, the return rate jumps from under 2% to 38% with a chip
• Most shelters and vets scan every animal they receive

What Pet Owners Should Do

• Get your pet chipped. Visit your local vet or a low-cost clinic. Many pet adoption centers include microchipping with adoption.
• Register the chip immediately. The chip is useless if it’s not registered in a database with your current contact information.
• Keep info updated. Changed your phone number or moved? Update your registration online — most databases offer free updates.
• Use both a chip AND a collar tag. Tags provide instant contact info; the chip is the permanent backup.
• Ask your vet to scan at annual checkups. This confirms the chip is still readable and in the correct position.

Frequently Asked Questions