A Little Chip, A Lot of Peace of Mind
May is Chip Your Pet Month, and while we’re all about quality food that helps dogs thrive, we’re also big believers in doing everything possible to keep them safe, which includes microchipping.
Let’s face it: dogs are curious. Whether they chase a squirrel, sneak out during a storm, or slip their collar on a walk, it only takes one moment for them to go missing. A microchip can be the key to bringing your pet back home.
But what exactly is a microchip? How does it work? And what should you know to keep that chip effective?
What Is a Pet Microchip?
A microchip is a tiny device, about the size of a grain of rice, that’s implanted under your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. It’s not a GPS or tracker, but it does contain a unique ID number that’s registered to your contact info.
Veterinarians, shelters, and animal control facilities have scanners that read this number. When your pet is found, they scan the chip, pull up your information, and give you a call.
It’s a simple, effective safety net that’s become a standard part of pet care.
Why Microchipping Matters
Here’s a stat that gets us every time: according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), dogs with microchips are over twice as likely to be returned to their owners than those without. It’s one of the most reliable ways to increase your chances of reuniting with a lost pet.
Even the most responsible dog owners can’t predict the unexpected:
- Natural disasters
- Unfenced yard escapes
- Door dashes during parties or holidays
- Lost collars and tags
Unlike ID tags, microchips don’t fall off, fade, or wear out. They’re always with your pup.
Is Microchipping Safe?
Yes, microchipping is a common and minimally invasive procedure performed by veterinarians. The chip is injected just under the skin using a syringe, similar to a vaccination. Most pets barely notice it.
The chip itself is made of biocompatible materials that are designed to stay in place and last a lifetime.
Side effects are rare and usually mild.
Common Myths About Microchips
1. “It tracks my dog like GPS!”
Not quite. Microchips don’t provide real-time location tracking. They simply store an ID number that connects to your contact info in a secure database.
2. “My dog has a collar he doesn’t need a chip.”
Collars and tags are great (keep using them!), but they can break or slip off. Microchips are permanent and much harder to lose.
3. “My dog never leaves the yard.”
Even indoor or yard-bound pets can find themselves in unexpected situations. A visitor leaves the gate open, a loud noise spooks them…life happens.
What You Need to Do After Microchipping
Getting your dog microchipped is only half the story. You must register the chip with your current contact information. Otherwise, it’s just a number with nowhere to point to.
Here’s what to do after the chip is placed:
- Register the chip number with the manufacturer’s database (ask your vet which one).
- Add your phone number, email, and address.
- Update your information if you move or change numbers.
- Ask your vet to scan the chip annually to make sure it’s still working.
Pro tip: Take a photo of your chip paperwork and save it in your phone. You never know when you’ll need it!
How to Know if Your Pet Already Has a Chip
If you adopted your dog from a rescue, shelter, or previous owner, there’s a good chance they may already be microchipped. You can:
- Ask your vet to scan your dog at their next check-up.
- Look for microchip records in your adoption paperwork.
If they are chipped, confirm the registration is under your name and your current contact info.
When Should You Microchip Your Dog?
Most dogs are microchipped during their puppy vet visits, often around the same time they’re spayed or neutered. But if your adult dog doesn’t have a chip, it’s never too late. The procedure is safe for dogs of all ages.
If you’re welcoming a new puppy into your home, ask your vet about microchipping early. It’s one more way to start your journey strong.
(And if your pup is starting out on Zignature’s Puppy Formula, even better! You’re clearly someone who plans ahead.)
Tips for a Safer Spring & Summer with a Microchipped Dog
As the weather warms up and dogs get more outdoor time, the chances of an accidental escape or lost pet increase. Here’s how to protect your pup:
- Check that microchip info is current.
- Use both tags and microchips for full coverage.
- Get your dog’s photo updated; you’ll want recent pics if you need to make a lost pet post.
- Know where your nearest shelters and vet clinics are; they’re most likely to scan a found dog.
- If you’re traveling, pack chip paperwork just in case.
And Don’t Forget: It’s Not Just for Dogs
Cats, rabbits, and even ferrets can also be microchipped. In fact, indoor cats especially benefit from chips since they don’t usually wear collars.
If your household includes multiple pets, talk to your vet about chipping everyone. Safety doesn’t stop at one species.
Why Zignature Cares About Chip Your Pet Month
We’re in the business of keeping dogs well-fed, well-cared for, and well-loved. So while we spend most of our time talking about high-quality limited ingredients, we also care deeply about whole-pet wellness. That includes safety.
Microchipping gives dogs a much better chance of getting back home safely. Think of it as one more way to love your dog for life.
If your dog isn’t microchipped, there’s no better time than Chip Your Pet Month to take that step. It’s quick, affordable, and gives you peace of mind you can’t put a price on.
And if your pup is chipped? Double-check that their info is current and that everything is up to date. It only takes a minute, and it can make all the difference if your dog is ever lost.
Because we all want our dogs to live long, safe, healthy lives, and we want them by our side through it all.
