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What is a microchip?
A microchip is a tiny transponder, about the size of a grain of rice, which is inserted through a needle much like a vaccine.  The transponder is coded with a unique identification number for that pet much like your social security number is unique to you.  This microchip is then used for permanent identification for your pet.  The technology is widely available and nearly all shelters and animal clinics have the means of retrieving the unique code from the transponder.

Microchip insertion explained.
Before insertion, the sterile microchip is scanned in the package to confirm that the identification code of the transponder is the same as that shown on the package bar code label.  The standard site for microchip insertion is in the subcutaneous tissue along the spine between the pet’s shoulder blades.  The skin at the injection site is gently pulled up, and the needle is quickly inserted.  The applicator plunger is depressed, injecting the microchip into the tissue.

Once the chip has been inserted, the pet is scanned to make certain that the chip is still reading properly and the identification number is double checked.  It is now an enduring and tamperproof method that cannot be lost such as identification tags and collars.

Is the process painful for my pet?
The procedure is relatively pain-free in most pets.  The application needle is a bit larger than most vaccine injection syringes.  Some clients will choose to have the microchip inserted during a surgical procedure so that the pet can be anesthetized for the injection.  However, this is not necessary, and the microchip may be inserted at any time.

Microchip manufacturers.
At Oak Forest Veterinary Clinic, we have selected the Pet Link microchip which utilizes an internationally standardized technology that allows your pet’s microchip to be read by an ISO-compliant scanner anywhere in the world.  Unlike many competitors of the Pet Link microchip, there are no annual fees, no fees during registration and updates to the registered information are at no additional charge.  Once the Pet Link microchip has been purchased and inserted by the veterinarian, your pet is protected for life with no additional charges.

Client responsibility.
Once the microchip has been inserted in your pet, you must register him or her at http://www.petlink.net.  We will also furnish you with the relevant documents and contact information for registration.  Failure to register your pet’s microchip identification will render the entire process useless.  If you move or change your contact information, be sure to update your registered microchip information.  If your pet is lost and recovered, this information will be used to reunite you with your pet.

How is the microchip detected?
The microchip is read with a microchip scanner, which detects the unique electronic code embedded in the microchip. The microchip scanner displays the identification number on the scanner’s screen.  The code is then called into the manufacturer of the microchip whereby they will reunite you with your pet.  Microchips cannot be easily misread, and the identification number is tamper-proof.  The information about the pet and owner is usually readily retrievable.