Updating Your Pet’s Microchip: Can Your Vet Do It?

How do you keep your pet’s microchip information up-to-date?

Knowing how to update those tiny chips is key to ensuring your furry friend can always find their way back to you if they get lost, whether you’ve moved to a new place or adopted a dog with a chip already in place.

Here are the basics of pet microchips, what your vet can do about changing them, and how vets check for them.

Understanding Microchip Basics

First off, let’s clear up what a microchip really does.

A pet microchip is a tiny electronic chip, roughly the size of a grain of rice, that’s implanted just under your pet’s skin—usually right between the shoulder blades. This chip contains a unique ID number that can be read by a scanner. Unlike what some might think, microchips are not GPS devices; they don’t track your pet’s location. Instead, they provide a permanent way to match your pet with your contact information, which is stored in a pet recovery database.

The true value of a microchip comes into play if your pet gets lost.

If someone finds them and takes them to a shelter or vet, the first thing usually done is to scan for a microchip. If they find one, they can pull up the ID number, look it up in the registry, and contact you to reunite you with your pet. It’s a pretty straightforward system, but it relies heavily on the information being up-to-date—which brings us to our next point.

Can a Vet Change Microchip Details?

So, can your vet update the info on your pet’s microchip? Well, it’s a bit of a yes and no situation. Vets can certainly help you with microchip issues, but they themselves usually don’t have the authority to change the owner details directly in the registry’s database. What they can do is scan the chip, give you the microchip number, and guide you on how to contact the registry to update your details.

If you’re not sure which registry your pet’s chip is with (there are several different ones), your vet can help you figure that out too. Once you know where the chip is registered, you can call or go online to update your info. It’s usually a simple process, but it might involve a fee depending on the registry.

Do Vets Check for Microchips?

Absolutely!

Checking for a microchip is often part of the standard procedure when a new or found pet is brought into a vet clinic or shelter. Vets use a special scanner that passes over the pet’s body to see if there is a microchip implanted. If the scanner detects a chip, it will display the chip’s ID number. This is particularly crucial for lost pets, as it is the most reliable way to identify them and contact their owners quickly.

During regular check-ups or visits, vets might also check the microchip as part of their routine exam, especially if you request it. It’s a good idea to have the chip checked periodically to make sure it’s still working correctly and hasn’t migrated from its original location.

Migration doesn’t happen often, but it can occur, and it’s another reason why you might want to have the chip scanned now and then.

Where Do I Register My Dog’s Microchip?

Once you’ve got the microchip number from your vet, the next step is figuring out where to register it. If your pet isn’t already registered or if you need to change registries, this is an important move to make. Most countries have several registries that offer this service, and choosing one can depend on a few factors like ease of use, cost, and the additional services they offer like lost pet alerts or updates.

It’s best to choose a registry that has a broad reach and is commonly used by shelters and vets in your area. This way, if your pet does get lost, there’s a better chance their chip will be recognized and the correct information pulled up quickly. Some of the most well-known registries offer online services where you can manage your pet’s profile, update contact details as needed, and even print out ID cards for your pet.

Changing Microchip Details Without Previous Owner

Adopting a pet that already has a microchip registered to someone else can be tricky, but it’s definitely manageable. If you find yourself in this situation, you’ll need to take a few steps to transfer ownership officially. The first step is to contact the registry where the microchip is registered and inform them that you are now the pet’s owner. They will likely require proof of ownership, which can include adoption papers, a transfer of ownership document, or possibly a statement from the previous owner.

It’s important to handle this process diligently because failing to update the microchip information can lead to complications if your pet ever gets lost. Some registries might also require a small fee to process the ownership transfer, so be prepared for that. Make sure to ask about all the necessary steps and gather the required documents beforehand to ensure a smooth transfer.

Changing Pet Chip Information

If your details change, like moving to a new house or getting a new phone number, updating your pet’s microchip information is crucial. Start by logging into the registry’s website where your pet’s microchip is registered. Most registries have straightforward web interfaces that guide you through the process of updating your information. You’ll typically need to enter your pet’s microchip number, and then you can proceed to update your address, phone number, and any other relevant contact information.

If you’re not comfortable doing this online or if you encounter any issues, don’t hesitate to call the registry’s customer service line. They can usually update your pet’s details over the phone or guide you through the process online. Some registries even offer apps that make managing your pet’s profile even easier, allowing you to make changes right from your smartphone.

Keeping your pet’s microchip information up-to-date ensures that you’re quickly reachable in case your pet is found after getting lost. Remember, a microchip is only as useful as the information linked to it, so keeping that data current is key to protecting your furry friend.

Conclusion

There you have it! We’ve covered the ins and outs of pet microchips, from understanding their importance to updating the information and event handling ownership changes. Remember, a microchip for your pet is one of the best tools to increase the odds of a happy reunion if they ever get lost. It’s a small device with a huge impact.

So, take a few minutes today to check your pet’s microchip registration. Make sure it’s up-to-date, and if you’re not sure where to start, just drop by your vet’s office or give them a call. They can guide you through the process and even help check if your pet’s microchip is still functioning as it should.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Updating your pet’s microchip information is a quick task that offers lasting peace of mind. Keep your details current, and keep your furry friend safe. Let’s ensure our pets are always just a scan away from coming home!