Microchipping pets is a simple, safe, and effective way to ensure the security of your beloved animals. At Lakecity Animal Hospital, a leading West Kelowna vet clinic, we believe in providing comprehensive care that includes not just emergency services but also preventative measures like microchipping. Whether you have a sprightly puppy, a curious kitten, or any other pet, understanding the importance of microchipping can make a significant difference in your pet’s life.
What Does a Microchip Do to a Pet?
A microchip is a tiny electronic chip, roughly the size of a grain of rice, that is implanted under your pet’s skin. It is a form of electronic identification that emits a unique ID number when scanned by a microchip scanner. This ID number can be registered in a pet microchip lookup database along with your contact information. In cases where pets wander off or get lost, this can be the key to reuniting you with your furry friend.
What Age Can You Microchip a Puppy?
Veterinarians at West Kelowna animal hospitals recommend microchipping puppies as early as 8 to 10 weeks of age. The procedure is quick and relatively painless, similar to a routine vaccination. The early implantation ensures that if they wander off at a young age, they can be returned safely.
Should I Microchip My Dog in Canada?
Absolutely! Microchipping is highly recommended for pets in Canada, especially for pets in West Kelowna who might have access to vast outdoor spaces. Being a responsible pet owner means taking all necessary steps to secure the safety of your pets, and microchipping is a major step in that direction.
Can You Scan a Microchip With Your Phone?
Currently, it is not possible to scan a pet’s microchip directly with a standard smartphone. However, most veterinary clinics and animal shelters have the appropriate scanners to read these chips.
Can I Track My Dog with a Microchip?
Microchips do not function as GPS devices. They are only useful for identification once a lost pet is scanned by a vet or shelter. For tracking, you would need a GPS-enabled collar.
Can a Dog’s Body Reject a Microchip?
Rejection of a microchip by a dog’s body is extremely rare. The microchips are designed to be bio-compatible, which means they do not interact with the body’s tissues and are thus not rejected. Your West Kelowna Vet at Lakecity Animal Hospital will be able to deal with rare situations where your dog or cat rejects a microchip. Removal of a microchip is possible but rarely necessary and should only be done by a professional at an emergency vet Kelowna facility if needed.
Can You Feel Your Pet’s Microchip?
It is possible to feel the microchip through the skin in some pets, especially those with less body fat. However, it is generally non-intrusive.
How Do I Change My Dog’s Microchip Information?
To update microchip information, pet owners should contact the microchip registry with which their chip is registered. This can be crucial if you move or change phone numbers.
What if My Pet is Lost and Microchipped?
If your pet is lost, report it to local animal shelters and veterinary . Provide them with the microchip number, which can significantly increase the chances of a reunion with your pet.
How Much Is It to Put a Tracking Chip in a Dog?
The cost of microchipping a pet in West Kelowna generally ranges from $45 to $85, depending on the veterinary office. Microchips are designed to last for the life of your pet and do not need to be replaced.
What Are the Cons of Microchipping a Dog?
The cons of microchipping are minimal compared to its benefits. The biggest concerns usually involve the rare chance of migration or an even rarer chance of infection.
At Lakecity Animal Hospital, we prioritize your pet’s safety and well-being. Microchipping is a small but crucial part of pet care that we provide for all residents in and around West Kelowna. Contact us to ensure your pet’s safety or learn more about our services.
By choosing to microchip your pet, you are taking a significant step towards a safer future for them. Whether it’s a routine check-up, pet nutrition advice, or emergency care, remember that your local vet in West Kelowna is here to help.