As a pet owner, one of your top priorities is the safety and well-being of your furry friend. You do everything you can to make sure they are happy and healthy, from feeding them the best food to taking them for regular check-ups at the vet. However, one important thing that many pet owners overlook is microchipping their pets.
Microchipping is a safe and effective way to ensure that your pet can be identified if they ever get lost or stolen. It involves implanting a tiny chip, about the size of a grain of rice, under your pet’s skin. This chip contains a unique identification number that can be read by a scanner. When a lost pet is found and taken to a shelter or vet clinic, the chip can be scanned, and the pet’s owner can be contacted.
Here are some reasons why microchipping your pet is so important:
Increases the chances of being reunited with your pet
According to the American Humane Association, only about 17% of lost dogs and 2% of lost cats ever find their way back home. However, pets with microchips have a much higher chance of being reunited with their owners. In fact, one study found that dogs without microchips were returned to their owners only 21.9% of the time, while microchipped dogs were returned 52.2% of the time. For cats, the numbers were even more dramatic, with microchipped cats being returned to their owners 38.5% of the time, compared to just 1.8% for cats without microchips.
Provides proof of ownership
If your pet is ever stolen, a microchip can provide proof of ownership if the thief is caught. It’s not uncommon for pets to be stolen and then sold or given away to someone else. With a microchip, you can prove that the pet belongs to you, which can be invaluable in getting them back.
Helps to identify medical conditions
Some microchips also contain information about your pet’s medical history, which can be useful if they are ever lost or injured. For example, if your pet has a medical condition that requires special treatment, this information can be included in the chip. This can help ensure that your pet gets the proper care they need, even if you are not there to provide it.
Affordable and easy to do
Microchipping is a simple and relatively painless procedure that can be done by your veterinarian. It’s also very affordable, with the cost typically ranging from $25 to $50. This is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your pet can be identified if they ever get lost.
In conclusion, microchipping your pet is a simple, safe, and effective way to ensure that they can be identified if they ever get lost or stolen. It’s a small investment that can have a huge impact on your pet’s safety and well-being. So if you haven’t already, consider getting your furry friend microchipped today.