August 15 is National Check the Chip Day for pet owners. The American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Animal Hospital Association created this day to remind pet owners about the importance of microchipping. It also serves as a reminder to keep the registration information up-to-date.
Microchipping Your Pet
Microchipping is implanting a small device into the scruff of an animal’s neck. When the chip is scanned, it reveals information that can be traced back to the pet’s owner. You can get your pet microchipped at your local veterinary office and some pet supply stores at a relatively low cost. When it’s completed, get a copy of the microchip paperwork which has your pet’s microchip number. This number holds the identification for your pet so make sure to store it someplace safe.
Microchip Registration
Registering your pet’s microchip number is the most important step in the process. Enter your contact information into the database using your pet’s unique microchip number. Make sure all of the contact information, especially your address and phone number, are correct. If your pet gets lost, they’ll have all the right information to return them safely. Hold on to the microchip number for updating the information in the database in the future.
Whether or not to microchip your pet is entirely up to you. That being said, microchips increase the likelihood of pets returning home to their families if lost or stolen. However, they’re only beneficial if the information they hold is accurate. Take advantage of the reminder National Check the Chip Day stands for. Make an appointment with your veterinarian for microchipping your pet if you haven’t already. Pet owners with microchipped pets should check the registration information in the database to ensure it’s up-to-date. Additionally, take the time to get your pet scanned to make sure the chip works properly. Regal Animal Hospital in Lake Worth, FL provides an extensive list of services to take care of your pet. Contact us today for the best veterinary care for your pets!