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Microchipping-why should you do it?

Have you ever thought about what might happen if your dog was to escape your house or yard? Despite your best efforts to keep your dog safe and sound at home, there is always the chance that he could get out. Then what? Now, more than ever, veterinarians and other pet care specialists are microchipping their dogs. It is the easiest and most fail proof way to increase the likelihood that your dog will be returned to you should he get lost.

What exactly is a microchipping?

Microchips are not tracking devices. They are radio frequency identification implants. (petfinder.com) Microchips carry a unique identification number that is specific to your pet. If a dog has a microchip, the chip can be scanned to find out who they belong to.

A chip is only about the size of a grain of rice. It can usually be implanted in between the dog’s shoulder blades via the use of a syringe. The implantation is quick and essentially painless. It will not harm your pet. Collar or tags are also highly suggested however they can be lost or removed. A microchipping lasts the lifetime of your pet because it’s composed of bio compatible materials and will not degenerate over time. (www.humanesociety.org)

There are many benefits to this process but one that might entice you is that some microchips will work with doggie doors. Your pet door could be programmed to your dog’s microchip, and will only allow your dog to enter your home which would guarantee that other animals and critters would not get in. This could be a safety issue since some of us live in areas with wild animals.

However, most people choose to microchipping to ensure they are reunited if their dogs go missing. But, it can also help deter criminals from victimizing dogs. It can also reduce the number of strays, euthanasia rates and shelter over-crowding. In fact, the ASPCA indicates that very few dogs that go missing are ever reunited with their owners. Folks, this is sad but true which is exactly why you should microchip your dog!

You can’t put a price tag on peace of mind and you don’t have to! The cost to microchip your dog will run you about $50, depending on where you go (*Vetco’s low cost vaccination clinic will microchip your dog for only $15). Many animal shelters as well as low cost spay/neuter clinics host specials as low as $10 for micro-chipping throughout the year.

The decision of whether or not to microchip depends on your circumstances and pet. You should do what is best for you and your dog. However, with very little monetary investment, you can almost guarantee the return of your pet, so why not?

TAILored Pet Services highly recommends you microchip your dog; however, we know it is a personal decision so this is not a requirement to sign-up for one of our dog walking or potty break packages. Contact us for more information on our monthly rates.

*VETCO Clinics offer affordable, low cost vaccination services and preventative veterinary care inside select Petco and Unleashed stores during convenient evening and weekend hours.

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