For many people, a pet is a deeply loved family member, and if they wander and get lost, it can be both stressful and traumatic. Even the most conscientious of pet owners try to protect their pets with collars and ID tags. Unfortunately, collars and ID tags are not foolproof, and the last thing you want is for your pet to become of one the countless unidentified strays at an animal shelter. Luckily, with the innovative technique of microchipping, these upsetting situations can be easily prevented.

WHAT ARE MICROCHIPS?

Microchips are implantable computer chips that translate a unique identification number for each animal. This innovative technology is designed to help pet owners find their lost pet quickly. These chips are no bigger than a grain of rice and are placed just under the skin through a procedure that is no more uncomfortable than a routine vaccine. Unlike ID tags or collars, they can never break or fall off. The standard injection site is between the shoulder blades.

Microchips are designed to last your pet’s lifetime and endure any type of activity without being affected or damaged. Owners who bring their pet to our animal hospital for a regular checkup should ask about microchipping, which can be added into any routine service.

HOW DO THEY HELP ME FIND MY LOST PET?

Microchips work by receiving a radio signal from a scanner and transmitting the encoded chip identification number back to the scanner. After scanning the implant site with a radio frequency identification (RFID) scanner, the technician will be able to see a unique identification number that coordinates with your contact information, your pet’s name, our contact info as your Joliet veterinarian, and the animal shelter they were adopted from if any. You will then be contacted and informed of where you can pick up your pet. With the chip ID in hand, the vital contact information is only a phone call away, reuniting you with your missing companion safely and promptly.

Recent studies have shown that pets with microchips are 2.5 times more likely to be reunited with their owners and returned home than those without a chip. Hopefully, your pet will never get lost, but in case it happens, a microchip increases the chance of a speedy, happy reunion. Contact Essington Road Animal Hospital in Joliet today for more information about our microchipping services!