Many pet parents who love taking their dogs outdoors are often concerned about their safety. As a result, they have started using tiny microchips that are placed under the pet’s skin. This electronic chip is small, enclosed in a cylinder, usually as small as a grain of rice. It contains the pet’s permanent identification number, which matches the owner’s contact information. The microchip is a ticket home for dogs who may get separated from their owners.

Benefits
Location of lost pets
Pets can go missing for various reasons, such as running outdoors, chasing after another animal, or fleeing away from loud noises. In both instances, it can be challenging for pets to find their way back, especially if they have wandered too far. However, having a microchip implanted in your pet can increase the chances of finding them. If a person of goodwill finds your pet, they can take it to the nearest vet or pet shop, where a vet can scan the microchip and call the owner with the help of the stored information.

The tag is permanent
Many pet parents use a collar with all the emergency contact information for their pets. However, the print on these may fade over time, and some may even break. If this happens when the pet is lost, finding it can become more difficult. On the contrary, a microchip is a permanent solution. It can only be removed with the help of a professional veterinarian. So, even if a shelter, rescue, or vet finds the pet, they can help reunite it with its owner.

Theft prevention
It is unfortunate but true that some people steal dogs for personal gain. While the chip may not provide GPS tracking, it can be useful in locating a stolen dog. Additionally, microchips can help prove ownership and provide other tools to safely bring pets back home.

The process is quick
Microchipping is a simple procedure that most reputable brands offer. It does not require anesthesia or surgery for the pet. The microchip can be implanted during a routine visit to the veterinary office and is introduced under the skin, where it sits permanently. Furthermore, if a pet is already under anesthesia for a procedure like neutering or spaying, the microchip can be implanted while they are unconscious.

The process is cost-effective
Contrary to common belief, implanting microchips in pets isn’t expensive. To find the average price in one’s area, one could look for terms like “microchip dog cost near me,” which should render relevant results, or a contact number to help one enquire about the price. The product is relatively affordable, with an average cost of $25 to $60. The price includes the cost of the chip, implantation procedure, and online registration to cover the contact information in a pet recovery database. While the dog’s size, age, and breed may not affect the price of the microchip, there are a couple of things that might. For instance, the location of the procedure may play a role in determining the price.

Easy accessibility
Centers for dog microchipping are easy to locate. A simple internet search for “dog microchipping near me” or “dog microchip registration” can help one find the nearest facility. The most common places for procedures include a vet’s office, pet store, or animal shelter. Additionally, some clinics, such as the ASPCA, hold periodic clinics where one can get their pets microchipped and save on the costs.

Popular brands
A few reliable brands in the country offer quality microchips for dogs. Some popular options include:

• AVID™
• PetLink™
• Digital Angel ®
• Home Again ®
• Peeva ©
• ResQ ®

Tips to pick the top microchip
One should note each pet microchip may have different features. Here are a few tips to consider before getting the implant for one’s dog.

• Check the read range, area, and speed
  The three factors mentioned are crucial in determining whether a shelter with a compatible reader can detect a microchip quickly in a single pass or if it might miss the chip. A high-quality microchip will be recognized instantly, which would aid in expediting the identification process.
• Ask about the frequency
  Pet microchips are available in three different frequencies. However, it is important to note that the International Standards Organization (ISO) has set global benchmarks for reliable, safe, high-quality pet microchips. It only approves chips with a frequency of 134.2 kHz. This frequency range is compatible with most scanners available today, so it is advisable to choose a brand that is ISO-compliant.
• Read reviews
  Most microchip brands have a website where users can leave reviews about their experiences with the microchip functionality after it is implanted in their pets. The users usually write about the product’s safety, security, and performance. Positive reviews can provide one with better peace of mind when considering a pet microchip implant.
• Ask the vet
  Always note that microchips should only be installed by a trained professional, such as a veterinarian. Speak to a vet to determine the best microchip for the dog, taking into consideration their size, personality, and health status. Some microchips include additional features, such as heart rate and temperature monitoring, which can be useful for keeping track of their pet’s health.