July is Lost Pet Prevention Month, and it comes right after the busiest lost-pet stretch of the year. If your dog slipped through an open gate today, a collar tag could fall off on the way. Dog microchipping in Fairfax, VA is the backup that stays with your dog for life, and it takes about as long as reading this post.
In this week’s Vet Video, Dr. Jacque Stahl walks through exactly how it works. She trusts it enough that she microchips her own French bulldog puppy, Evie, on camera.
What is a microchip, exactly?
A microchip is a tiny device about the size of a grain of rice. It sits just under your dog’s skin, between the shoulder blades, and carries a unique 15-digit code.
That code connects to an online registry with your contact information. When a lost dog is scanned at a veterinary hospital, shelter, police station, or airport, the code comes up and the registry connects them back to you. The vast majority of lost dogs with a registered microchip find their owners.
Does microchipping hurt?
Not really, and Evie can vouch for that. The chip is placed with a quick injection between the shoulder blades. In the video, Dr. Stahl describes it as a little pinch, and then it’s done. No sedation, no recovery time, and it can happen during a regular Fear Free Appointment.
How much does dog microchipping cost in Fairfax?
Usually under $125, once, for a form of identification that lasts your dog’s whole life. Compare that to the cost of printing flyers and hoping. A microchip is also clear proof of ownership if there is ever a dispute over whose dog this is. If you are budgeting for the essentials, our wellness plans and Trupanion pet insurance can help you plan ahead for preventive care.
What kind of microchip should you ask for?
Dr. Stahl recommends an international 15-digit microchip. It works if you ever travel with your dog, and it connects to the largest lookup database, which means more places can identify your dog quickly.
One thing a microchip does not do
A microchip is not a GPS tracker. It cannot track your dog’s location or yours. It only identifies your dog and connects a finder back to you, which is exactly what you want when it matters.
Five minutes now, a reunion later
Microchipping is quick, easy, and one of the most effective things you can do to make sure a lost dog becomes a found dog. Watch the video above, then come see us.