Proper pet identification is just as important of a preventative healthcare measure as vaccinations and pest control. In fact, it’s one of the best things you’ll ever do for your animal companion! Below, your Savannah, GA veterinarian at Westside Animal Hospital answers your questions about microchips.

What’s a Microchip, Anyway?

A microchip is a tiny computer chip that is housed inside of a glass capsule and placed just underneath your pet’s skin. On this chip is implanted a number; the number corresponds to the chip manufacturer’s database, where your pet’s contact information is stored. If a lost pet is returned to an animal shelter or pet clinic, special scanners there can read the number on the chip. In this manner, veterinary professionals can get the lost pet returned to the rightful owner quickly and easily.

What are the Benefits of Microchips?

One benefit of microchips is that they provide constant identification; pets cannot remove them the way they may be able to chew, snag, or rip off a collar containing ID tags. This way, you never have to worry about your pet going unidentified. Another advantage of microchips is that they are very easy to update should you move or get a new phone number. You don’t have to get an entirely new microchip—simply contact the microchip manufacturer by phone or email, and they can update your pet’s information instantaneously.

What’s the Procedure Like?

Microchips are inserted under the skin using a specialized syringe. Usually, the chip is placed between a pet’s shoulder blades, just below the neck. The whole procedure will only take a moment or two, and your pet won’t experience any pain aside from a brief pinching sensation at the point of insertion. All in all, it’s just like getting a regular vaccination!

Is There a Risk of Side Effects?

Side effects from the microchipping procedure are exceedingly rare, but they can occur. Symptoms usually include minor itching, redness, or inflammation at the point of insertion. Luckily, such side effects can easily be treated; tell your veterinarian if your pet experiences any of these symptoms after receiving a microchip.

How Do I Get My Pet a Chip?

Contact Westside Animal Hospital, your Savannah, GA vet clinic. We perform the microchipping procedure right here at the facility. We can also answer any further questions you may have regarding pet identification, microchips, and the microchipping procedure. Call today!