How to Update a Dog's Microchip

Update your dog's microchip in case of emergency.

Pet microchips give animals an electronic identification number. The chip can be detected by radio frequency scanners, which can help locate your pet in case it is lost. As a responsible pet owner, you might have a microchip installed as a backup method of identification in case your dog loses its collar. It is important that the microchip contain accurate, up-to-date contact information.

Instructions

1. Read your dog's microchip documentation papers carefully and look for contact information for the company with which your dog's chip is registered. If this information is not readily available, contact the clinic or veterinarian where the chip was implanted. Some registries provide a tag for your pet's collar with a contact phone number.

2. Call the registry and provide your new contact information. You might be able to do this online at the registry's website.

3. Pay the fee if there is one associated with updating your dog's microchip. You might also want to make sure that your annual registration fee is paid, if there is one. That way, you can avoid having a voided microchip.

References

• Humane Society: High Technology-Identifying Lost Pets with Microchips
• Canis Major: Microchip