What is a Microchip?A microchip is the size of a grain of rice and is encased in biocompatible glass (the same used in human pacemakers) to prevent it from being rejected by the animal’s body. The microchip is inserted into the loose skin on the back of the pet’s neck, between the shoulder blades, using a microchipping needle. Insertion is a quick and easy process that causes no more discomfort than a usual vaccination.
Each microchip carries a unique number that can be used to retrieve key information about the pet and its owner including the pet’s name, the owner's name and address, and a record of the pet’s vaccinations. We have used microchips to successfully reunite several lost pets with their owners. |
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How does it work?When a scanner is passed over the microchip, low-frequency radio waves created by the scanner activate the microchip, allowing the unique number to be read and information to be obtained by shelter or veterinary staff.
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What are the benefits?Microchipping is an inexpensive investment and lasts for the life of your dog or cat. The technology to microchip has been around since 1989. Since then approximately 1.5 million dogs and cats have been microchipped.
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How do I get my dog microchipped?If you would like to have your dog microchipped, and you live within the city limits of Huntsville, stop by the shelter on any Saturday during the month of November from 11:30A-1:30P. No appointment is necessary. PCPS recommends that puppies have their final vaccinations before being microchipped.
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