If your beloved cat slips out the front door unnoticed or your playful pup darts out of the backyard after a passing bird, imagine how hard it could be to get them back! What if there was a simple way to dramatically increase the chances of being reunited? Fortunately there is, and it’s called microchipping of dogs and cats.
While collars and tags are helpful, they can fall off or become unreadable over time. A microchip, however, is a permanent form of identification that could be your pet’s ticket home if they ever go missing. For any responsible pet owner, microchipping is an essential act of love.
What Is a Microchip?
A microchip is a tiny electronic device, about the size of a grain of rice, that’s implanted just beneath your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. It’s quick, safe, and relatively painless, much like a routine vaccination.
Each chip carries a unique identification number that is stored in a secure database. If your pet is found and taken to a vet or animal shelter, a scanner can read the chip’s number and contact details linked to it, giving you the best possible chance of being reunited with your furry family member.
Why Microchipping Your Pet Is So Important
Every year, thousands of pets go missing across Australia. While some find their way back home through posters, social media, or good old-fashioned door knocking, many do not, especially those without any form of identification.
Microchipping your pet ensures that no matter where they end up, there’s a way to trace them back to you. Unlike collars, microchips can’t fall off or be removed. They’re with your pet for life, offering a permanent safety net.
Here are just a few benefits of microchipping:
- Quick identification if your pet is found
- Peace of mind knowing your pet has a better chance of coming home
- Legal compliance – in many parts of Australia, microchipping is now mandatory for cats and dogs
- Reunification speed – pets with microchips are reunited with their families much faster than those without
Microchipping Your Pet – What to Expect
If you’re wondering what’s involved in microchipping of dogs and cats, it’s simpler than you might think. The procedure is usually done during a routine vet visit and takes just a few seconds. Most pets don’t even flinch, the needle used is a bit larger than a vaccination needle, but the process is over before they know it.
After the chip is implanted, your vet will help you register the chip number and your contact details with a national pet registry. It’s vital to keep these details up to date, especially if you move house or change your phone number.
When Should You Microchip?
Ideally, pets should be microchipped as early as possible. Many breeders and shelters now microchip puppies and kittens before they go to their new homes. However, if your pet hasn’t been chipped yet, it’s never too late. Even older pets benefit from the protection microchipping provides.
Keeping Information Up to Date
Microchipping is only effective if your contact information is current. One of the most common reasons lost pets can’t be reunited with their families is outdated registry details. Make it a habit to check your pet’s registration every time you move or change phone numbers. It only takes a few minutes but could make all the difference in an emergency.
Peace of Mind, One Chip at a Time
At Railway Avenue Veterinary Clinic, we believe that every pet deserves the best chance of making it home if they ever get lost. That’s why we offer safe, affordable microchipping of dog and cats as part of our commitment to responsible pet ownership.
Our caring and experienced veterinary team will walk you through the process, answer any questions, and ensure your pet’s microchipping is done with the utmost care and compassion.
Book Your Microchipping Appointment Today
Don’t wait for the unexpected. Give your pet the best chance of coming home in the event that they go missing. Microchipping your pet is one of the most thoughtful, responsible things you can do for their safety and your peace of mind.
To book an appointment or find out more about microchipping, get in touch with our friendly vets. Byford, Armadale, and pet owners all across Perth rely on us for quality pet care at affordable prices. Call 9497 1547 or schedule and appointment online now.
