Microchipping your dog helps to ensure you can get him back should he ever get lost. Microchipping dogs usually costs an average of $45, but this can vary depending on your location and where you get the microchip.
Microchip for dog cost
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In the United States, the average cost of a microchip for your pup is $45. However, you may pay as little as $20 or as much as $75. In some cases, you may be able to get your dog microchipped for free at your local humane society. Contact your local organization to find out if it has low or no-cost services and what the requirements are to take advantage of those.
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Register your microchip
In most cases, the cost of the microchip includes registration but be sure to ask before getting your pup microchipped. After your pup gets the microchip, make sure to register the chip. You will get paperwork with the registration website and microchip number. There are many companies that offer microchips, including AKC Reunite and Home Again.
Visit the site and update the registration, including information about your pup and your contact information. Make sure to save the login information and update the registration anytime you move or change your phone number or email address.
How microchips work
A microchip is a small transponder that uses radio frequency. Veterinarians and animal shelters have scanners that can read the information on the microchip. The microchip only holds the ID number of the chip, which allows the veterinarian or shelter to look up the dog. This is why it is critical to update the registration regularly. If you fail to do so, the vet won't be able to contact you about your lost dog.
It is important to note that microchips do not have GPS capability. This means you won't be able to track your pup if he runs away. It is not until the microchip is scanned that someone can contact you to return your pup.
How a microchip is inserted
Microchips are fast and easy to insert. Consider getting a microchip when your pup is spayed or neutered or at a regular checkup and vaccination appointment. The microchip is inserted under the skin between your pup's shoulder blades using a hypodermic needle that is slightly larger than the one your vet may use to administer vaccines. No anesthesia is required for the procedure.
Benefits of microchipping your dog
Lost dogs who have a microchip are reunited with their owners 52.2 percent of the time compared to a 21.9 percent reunion rate for dogs without a microchip. Of course, your pup should also wear a collar with rabies, registration, and identification tags.
However, dogs can slip out of collars, even when they are fitted properly. In addition, in the unfortunate situation where a dog is stolen, a collar can be removed, but a microchip can increase the chances of recovering your dog.
Microchip problems and concerns
Microchipping is a safe procedure and rarely has side effects and problems. If you notice swelling or discharge from the injection site, be sure to contact your veterinarian right away.
Another uncommon problem is that microchips may occasionally migrate away from the injection site. This can mean a veterinarian or shelter may not find and scan the microchip. Your veterinarian should check the microchip each year at your pup's annual examination to make sure it is working and is positioned correctly.