Microchipping

A microchip is a very small radio frequency identification transponder (the size of a grain of rice, the basmati kind) which is surrounded in an inert sterile glass capsule. It is aseptically inserted via a special syringe just under the skin between the shoulders usually while the animal is conscious. In fact most pets do not even know they have had the implantation. The chip will remain just under the skin for your pet’s entire life.

A small hand held scanner emits radio waves which will detect the chip. The scanner will read a fifteen digit number unique to the chip which is logged onto a national computerised database with the owners contact details. If you need to change these details, for example if you decide to relocate, simply get in touch with database online or by post. Scanners are found in all vet surgeries, animal shelters and rescue centres.

Microchips are handy not only for lost and found animals but also for pet passports since they will accurately identify the pet to the official paperwork. The chips themselves cannot be removed easily unless by surgical intervention so it makes it a sure fire way of identification. Cats in particular can also use the chip to access the newer cat flaps which read the chip to allow the flap to open, enabling only your cat to enter your home. The flap can allow for more than one chip to be read in the case of multi-cat households. This technology solves the problem of other unwanted house guests.