Microchipping Your Pet

Does your pet have a cute collar and tag containing your phone number if they get lost?  If so, do you still get anxious whenever it takes too long to find them?  Do your friends with pets and your veterinarian talk about the benefits of microchipping?  But, so far, you have not bit the bullet.  Should you microchip your furry friend?

Microchipping Your Pet
By Pierre Mouchette | Bits-n-Pieces

The Benefits of Microchipping
Not being able to find your cat or dog is scary.  If your pet is missing, you may be able to reunite faster if your pet is microchipped.  Here is how it works: Microchips are about the size of a grain of rice.  A vet usually implants it between the shoulder blades of your pet.  The clinic or shelter will immediately scan for a microchip when someone finds a lost pet.  They can locate the owner quickly if they find a chip with up-to-date information.
Without a microchip, a lost pet brought to a clinic or shelter may not find its way home as quickly.  The shelter would have to rely on social media or other options to get the word out about a found pet.
 
Is Microchipping Right for Your Pet?
Microchipping your dog or cat is a good idea if:

• You have an outdoor cat - cats who go outside (even if it is just occasionally) are much more likely to get lost than an indoor cats.  It is especially true with female cats who are in heat.
• Your pet is prone to running off - maybe they see a car or hear a fellow animal on the street and decide to bolt.  If this is a common occurrence, the benefits of microchipping are significant.
• Your pet frequently gets out of their collar or harness - your phone number may be on your pet's collar, but if they regularly squeeze out of it, you will want a backup strategy.  A microchip can ensure your pet is always carrying your contact info.
• You have a cat prone to escaping - indoor cats can sneak through open doors or loose window screens.  If they can fit in even the most random crevices, it is better to be safe than sorry and opt for a microchip.
• You want peace of mind - not being able to find your pet is hard enough.  Microchipping improves your chance of getting your pet back if they are lost or stolen.  It can reduce stress if your pet is lost and alleviate your worries about any prospects of them getting lost.

 
If you think microchipping is the right option, schedule an appointment with your vet, or ask them for more information before making your decision.