It’s a smart idea to microchip your pet, but what happens if the chip malfunctions? This is not common, but it does happen. The following guide will walk you through what to do if your pet’s microchip doesn’t work.
To begin, let’s take a look at how these nifty devices work.
Understanding Microchip Technology
First up, let’s talk about what a microchip is and how it works?
A pet microchip is a small electronic chip that’s implanted just under your pet’s skin, usually around the neck area. It’s pretty much a mini radio frequency identification (RFID) device. Each chip has a unique identification number that’s linked to an owner’s contact information in a pet recovery database.
When a scanner is passed over the microchip, it emits a low radio frequency that provides the power necessary for the chip to send the ID number back to the scanner. It’s a passive system, which means the chip itself doesn’t need a power source like a battery.
The beauty of a microchip is that it’s always there, ready to speak up for your pet if they can’t speak for themselves by revealing their ID number that can help trace them back to you.
Pet Microchip Not Working
So, what do you do if your pet’s microchip stops working?
First, how do you even know it’s not working? Typically, you might find out during a routine vet visit when the vet scans your pet and can’t detect the chip. Or perhaps a shelter might inform you they had trouble reading the chip after scanning a lost pet that was brought in.
If you suspect the microchip isn’t working:
Double-check with a second scanner:
Sometimes, the issue could be with the scanner itself and not the microchip.
Visit your veterinarian:
Have them use a high-quality scanner to check again. Vets usually have access to the best equipment, which minimises the chances of a faulty reading.
It’s important to troubleshoot these issues promptly because a non-functioning microchip could mean the difference between being reunited with a lost pet or not.
How Often Do Pet Microchips Fail?
You might wonder: how often do these microchips actually fail?
It’s quite rare. Microchips are designed to last a lifetime, and the chances of a chip outright failing are very low. Most issues with microchips not working are usually due to improper placement during implantation, migration of the chip from its original location, or issues with the scanner, not the chip itself.
Studies and reports on microchip reliability suggest that less than 1% of microchips fail due to a fault with the chip. More commonly, problems might arise if the microchip migrates in the pet’s body, making it difficult to locate with a scanner. That’s why it’s crucial to have your pet’s microchip scanned annually during regular vet check-ups to ensure it’s still in the right spot and working correctly.
Can Pet Microchips Be Deactivated?
One question that often pops up is whether pet microchips can be deactivated or turned off.
The answer is pretty straightforward: no, they can’t. Since pet microchips are passive devices—they don’t have batteries or moving parts—they don’t have an ‘off’ switch. They are designed to last a pet’s lifetime and stay active, continuously ready to transmit ID information when scanned by a reader.
However, even though the chip itself can’t be turned off, information linked to it in the database can be updated or changed. For instance, if you transfer ownership of your pet, you can update the registration details to reflect the new owner’s information. This flexibility ensures that the microchip always provides relevant, up-to-date information but remains perpetually active as a source of identification.
Troubleshooting Microchip Issues
If you’ve confirmed that a microchip is not being detected and you’re sure it’s not just a scanner error, there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot:
Check Registration Details:
First, ensure that the microchip number and your contact details are correctly registered in the database. There might have been an error in entering the microchip number or your contact details.
Professional Scan:
Visit a few different vets or shelters and have them try scanning your pet with their equipment. This helps to rule out the possibility of a defective scanner.
Consider Re-microchipping:
If repeated scans with different devices continue to fail, speak to your veterinarian about the possibility of the microchip having failed or migrated in a way that makes it undetectable. They might suggest implanting a new microchip, ensuring it’s placed correctly this time.
Keep Records:
Always keep a record of the microchip number and the date and place of implantation. This documentation can be crucial in identifying issues and proving ownership.
Stay Informed:
Keep yourself informed about the type of microchip implanted in your pet, as some older types might be less compatible with modern scanners.
Troubleshooting these issues promptly can prevent complications if your pet is ever lost, ensuring they have a reliable form of identification.
Professional Solutions for Microchip Failure
When troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the issue, it might be time to seek professional solutions. Here’s what your vet can do if a microchip fails:
Diagnosis:
Your vet might use a more sophisticated scanner or alternative methods to detect the microchip. Sometimes, X-rays are used to determine the chip’s location and condition, especially if migration or damage is suspected.
Replacement:
If a microchip is determined to be defective or misplaced, your vet can implant a new microchip. It’s important that this new microchip’s details are updated or added to your pet’s existing registry profile.
Document Issues:
Your vet can help document any issues with the original microchip, which can be helpful for manufacturer feedback and for your records.
Follow-Up:
After a new microchip is implanted, follow-up visits are crucial to ensure the new chip remains in place and functional. Regular scans by your vet can confirm its ongoing efficacy.
Professional interventions like these ensure that your pet’s identification is never compromised, maintaining your peace of mind. By taking these steps, you can tackle microchip failures head-on, ensuring that this essential part of your pet’s safety net remains intact and functional.
Preventing Microchip Failures
While it’s true that microchip failures are rare, there are proactive steps you can take to minimise the risk and ensure your pet’s microchip continues to function as intended. Here’s how you can stay ahead of any potential issues:
Regular Check-ups:
Make a habit of having your pet’s microchip scanned during regular veterinary visits. This simple check can confirm that the chip is still operational and hasn’t migrated.
Correct Implantation:
Ensure that the microchip is implanted by a professional who has experience and a good track record. Proper implantation reduces the risk of migration or failure.
Keep Information Updated:
Always keep your contact information up to date in the microchip registry. If your phone number or address changes, updating these details promptly ensures that you can be contacted if your pet is found.
Use a Reputable Registry:
Register the microchip with a well-known and widely used registry. This ensures broader compatibility with different scanner types and increases the chances of your pet being identified if lost.
Educate Yourself:
Know the type of microchip your pet has and understand its features and limitations. This knowledge can be crucial in troubleshooting or discussing options with your vet.
By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your pet’s microchip remains a reliable lifeline, keeping them safely linked back to you.
Conclusion
Microchipping is a crucial part of pet ownership that offers an extra layer of security for your beloved companion. While microchip failures are rare, knowing how to handle such situations ensures that you’re prepared for anything. Remember, a functioning microchip can make all the difference in being reunited with your pet if they ever get lost. Don’t wait until it’s too late—check your pet’s microchip regularly, keep your registry information up to date, and always consult with professionals if you suspect there’s a problem. Take a moment today to verify your pet’s microchip status and ensure your peace of mind. Let’s keep our furry friends safe and sound!