Losing a pet is a terrifying experience for any owner. In Phoenix, where the desert environment can present unique challenges for lost animals, microchipping provides a permanent form of identification that significantly increases the chances of a safe reunion.
Why Microchipping is Crucial in Phoenix:
- Permanent Identification: Unlike collars and tags, microchips cannot be lost or removed.
- Increased Recovery Rate: Microchipped pets are far more likely to be returned to their owners.
- Protection Against Theft: Microchipping can help prove ownership if a pet is stolen.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your pet has a permanent form of identification provides peace of mind.
- Phoenix-Specific Challenges: The vast desert landscape and potential for extreme heat make it even more critical to have a reliable way to identify lost pets in Phoenix.
How Microchipping Works:
- Tiny Microchip: A microchip is a small, electronic chip about the size of a grain of rice.
- Simple Procedure: A veterinarian inserts the microchip under the pet's skin, usually between the shoulder blades, using a needle. The procedure is quick and relatively painless.
- Unique Identification Number: Each microchip has a unique identification number.
- Database Registration: The microchip number is registered in a database along with your contact information.
- Scanning: If a lost pet is found, animal shelters and veterinary clinics can scan the microchip to retrieve the identification number and contact the owner.
What to Do After Microchipping:
- Register Your Information: Ensure your contact information is accurately registered in the microchip database.
- Keep Your Information Updated: If you move or change your phone number, update your information in the database.
- Check the Microchip Regularly: Ask your veterinarian to scan the microchip at your pet's annual checkup to ensure it is still working.
Microchipping Myths:
- Microchips are GPS trackers: Microchips do not track a pet's location. They only provide identification when scanned.
- Microchips contain personal information: Microchips only contain an identification number. Your personal information is stored in the database.
- Microchipping is painful: The procedure is similar to a vaccination and causes minimal discomfort.
Critter Caretakers' Commitment to Pet Safety:
Critter Caretakers strongly recommends microchipping for all pets in Phoenix. It's a simple, affordable way to provide permanent identification and significantly increase the chances of a safe return if your beloved companion gets lost.
Links:
Forever Home: Microchipping Your Pet in Phoenix