Losing a beloved dog can be a traumatic experience. The frantic searches, the posters plastered around the neighborhood, and the constant worry can be overwhelming. That’s why microchipping is such a vital tool for pet recovery. A microchip, a tiny electronic device implanted under your dog’s skin, can be scanned by animal shelters and veterinary clinics to identify your dog and reunite them with you. But what if you’re unsure if your dog even has a microchip? While a professional scan is always recommended, there are some steps you can take at home to investigate. Let’s explore how you can check for a microchip at home and understand what the next steps are.
Understanding Microchips and How They Work
A microchip isn’t a GPS tracking device. It’s a small, rice-sized transponder that contains a unique identification number. When a scanner is passed over the area where the microchip is implanted, the scanner emits a radio frequency that activates the microchip. The microchip then transmits its unique identification number back to the scanner. This number can then be used to look up your contact information in a microchip registry database.
The most common location for microchip implantation in dogs is between the shoulder blades, just under the skin. However, chips can sometimes migrate, so it’s essential to check the surrounding area as well.
The implantation procedure is generally quick and relatively painless, similar to a routine injection. Most veterinarians and animal shelters offer microchipping services.
The Home Check: Feeling for a Microchip
While you cannot definitively confirm the presence of a microchip without a scanner, you can perform a basic physical check to get a preliminary idea.
Preparing for the Physical Check
Before you begin, it’s important to create a calm and comfortable environment for your dog. Use a gentle, reassuring voice and offer treats as positive reinforcement. If your dog is sensitive to being touched, proceed with extra caution.
Gather your supplies: your hands, a good light source, and potentially a helper to keep your dog still and calm.
The Touch Test: What to Look For
Gently run your fingers over the area between your dog’s shoulder blades. Apply light pressure as you feel around. You are trying to detect a small, firm, rice-sized object under the skin.
Don’t press too hard, as this could cause discomfort for your dog. Move your fingers slowly and deliberately, covering the entire area between the shoulder blades and extending a few inches in all directions.
If you feel something that resembles a small, hard object just beneath the skin, it could be the microchip. However, it could also be scar tissue, a fatty deposit, or another benign skin condition. It is not possible to distinguish definitively without a scanner.
Limitations of the Touch Test
It’s crucial to understand that this method is not foolproof. Microchips can be difficult to feel, especially in dogs with thick fur or ample subcutaneous fat. Even if you don’t feel anything, it doesn’t necessarily mean your dog isn’t microchipped. Conversely, feeling a small lump doesn’t guarantee it’s a microchip.
Never assume that you have found or not found a microchip based solely on the touch test. A professional scan is always necessary for confirmation.
Professional Microchip Scanning: The Only Reliable Method
The only way to definitively determine if your dog has a microchip is to have them scanned by a professional. Veterinarians, animal shelters, and animal control agencies all have microchip scanners.
Where to Get Your Dog Scanned
Veterinarian’s Office: Your veterinarian is an excellent resource for microchip scanning. They routinely scan pets during checkups and can easily confirm the presence or absence of a chip.
Animal Shelters and Rescues: Most animal shelters and rescue organizations routinely scan incoming animals for microchips. They are generally happy to scan your dog for you, often free of charge.
Animal Control Agencies: Your local animal control agency also has microchip scanners and can scan your dog.
What to Expect During the Scan
The scanning process is quick and painless. The technician will simply pass the scanner over the area between your dog’s shoulder blades. If a microchip is present, the scanner will emit a beep or display the microchip’s identification number on the screen.
The technician will then record the microchip number and use it to search the microchip registry database to retrieve your contact information.
Understanding Microchip Registry Databases
Microchip registry databases are online databases that store the microchip number and the pet owner’s contact information. It is critical to register your microchip and keep your contact information up to date. If your dog is lost and found, the microchip is only useful if the information in the registry is accurate.
There are multiple microchip registry databases, and sometimes a microchip may not be registered in a universal database. This is why it’s essential to ensure your pet’s microchip is registered with a reputable registry and that you know which registry your pet is registered with.
What to Do if You Find a Microchip
If the scan reveals a microchip, the next step is to confirm that the contact information associated with the chip is correct.
Checking and Updating Your Contact Information
Contact the microchip registry associated with your dog’s microchip number. You can usually find the registry information on the paperwork you received when your dog was microchipped, or you can ask the veterinarian or shelter that scanned your dog to help you identify the registry.
Once you’ve contacted the registry, verify that your name, address, phone number, and any other contact information are correct. If anything is outdated, update it immediately.
It’s important to keep your contact information current, even if you haven’t moved or changed your phone number recently. Double-checking periodically can ensure that you can be reached if your dog is ever lost.
What if the Microchip Isn’t Registered to You?
In some cases, the microchip may be registered to a previous owner or to the breeder. If this happens, contact the microchip registry to initiate a transfer of ownership.
You will likely need to provide proof of ownership, such as adoption papers or a bill of sale. The registry will then contact the previous owner to confirm the transfer.
What to Do If Your Dog Isn’t Chipped
If the scan reveals that your dog doesn’t have a microchip, it’s highly recommended that you get them microchipped as soon as possible.
The Benefits of Microchipping
Microchipping is a simple and effective way to increase the chances of being reunited with your dog if they ever get lost or stolen. Unlike collars and tags, microchips cannot be lost or removed.
A microchip is a permanent form of identification that can significantly improve your dog’s chances of returning home.
The Microchipping Procedure
The microchipping procedure is quick and relatively painless. Your veterinarian will inject the microchip under the skin between your dog’s shoulder blades. The entire process takes only a few seconds.
After the microchip is implanted, you will need to register the microchip number with a microchip registry database and keep your contact information up to date.
Cost of Microchipping
The cost of microchipping varies depending on your location and veterinarian. However, it is generally a relatively inexpensive procedure, especially considering the peace of mind it provides.
Many animal shelters and rescue organizations offer low-cost microchipping clinics.
Beyond Microchipping: Additional Safety Measures
While microchipping is an essential tool for pet recovery, it’s not the only step you should take to protect your dog.
Collar and ID Tags
Always ensure your dog wears a collar with an ID tag that includes your name, address, and phone number. Even with a microchip, a visible ID tag can help someone quickly identify your dog and contact you directly.
Keeping Your Dog Secure
Take precautions to prevent your dog from escaping. Ensure your fence is secure, keep your dog on a leash when walking in public areas, and train your dog to come when called.
Consider GPS Tracking
For dogs that are prone to escaping or that spend a lot of time outdoors, consider using a GPS tracking device. These devices attach to your dog’s collar and allow you to track their location in real-time using your smartphone. Note that these are different from a microchip, which only transmits its ID number when scanned.
By taking these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of your dog getting lost and increase the chances of a safe and speedy reunion if they do.
Taking the time to check for a microchip, keeping your information updated, and implementing additional safety measures can provide peace of mind and significantly increase the chances of a happy reunion should your dog ever become lost. Remember, being proactive about your dog’s safety is an act of love and responsibility.
Can I really check my dog’s microchip at home?
While you can’t definitively read the microchip information at home without a specialized scanner, you can perform some preliminary checks. Start by gently palpating the area between your dog’s shoulder blades. Many microchips are implanted in this location. Feel for a small, rice-sized object moving under the skin. It’s important to be gentle and avoid causing your dog any discomfort.
If you feel something that resembles a microchip, it doesn’t guarantee functionality or registration. However, it does suggest a microchip is present. To confirm the microchip’s functionality and retrieve its number, you’ll need to visit a veterinarian or animal shelter. They have the necessary scanners to read the chip and provide you with the associated identification number.
What if I can’t feel anything when I check for the microchip?
It’s possible that the microchip has migrated from its original implantation site. While relatively uncommon, microchips can sometimes move under the skin. This movement can make it difficult to locate the chip through palpation alone. Also, the microchip may be smaller than you expect, or your dog’s fur and skin may make it harder to feel.
Don’t be discouraged if you can’t feel the chip. The most reliable way to confirm the presence and functionality of a microchip is to visit your veterinarian or a local animal shelter. They have the appropriate scanners to detect the chip, regardless of its location, and can provide you with the microchip number if it is present and functioning correctly.
What kind of scanner is needed to read a dog’s microchip?
The scanners used to read dog microchips are called universal or multi-frequency scanners. These scanners are designed to read all common microchip frequencies (125 kHz, 128 kHz, and 134.2 kHz) used in animal identification. Older scanners may only read certain frequencies, potentially missing microchips that operate on a different frequency.
Veterinarians, animal shelters, and animal control agencies typically use these universal scanners. The scanner works by emitting a radio frequency that activates the microchip. The microchip then transmits its unique identification number back to the scanner, which displays the number on a screen. This number is crucial for accessing the registration information associated with your dog.
How do I find out who the microchip is registered to?
Once you have the microchip number, you can use it to search a pet microchip registry database. Several online registries exist, often operated by microchip manufacturers or independent organizations. You can typically enter the microchip number on their website to initiate a search. Alternatively, the veterinarian or shelter that scanned the chip can often help you identify the registered owner.
The search results will reveal the contact information (name, phone number, and address) associated with the microchip. If the information is outdated or inaccurate, you will need to contact the registry directly to update the information. Keeping your contact details current is essential to ensure that you can be reunited with your dog quickly if they are lost.
What if the microchip isn’t registered or the contact information is wrong?
If the microchip isn’t registered, you’ll need to register it with a pet recovery database as soon as possible. Most microchip manufacturers have their own databases, and some independent organizations also offer registration services. You’ll typically need to create an account and pay a registration fee. Be sure to choose a reputable registry that offers 24/7 support and nationwide coverage.
If the contact information is incorrect, contact the registry immediately to update it. Outdated information is one of the most common reasons why lost pets aren’t reunited with their owners. Many registries allow you to update your information online or by phone. Ensure all your contact details are current, including your phone number, address, and email address.
Can a microchip ever stop working?
While rare, microchips can sometimes fail or become unreadable. This can happen due to various factors, such as damage to the chip, migration to a location where it’s difficult to scan, or simply a malfunction. In some cases, scar tissue can form around the chip, making it harder for the scanner to detect it.
To ensure your dog’s microchip is functioning correctly, ask your veterinarian to scan the chip during their annual checkup. If the chip isn’t detected, they may recommend implanting a new microchip. While having two microchips is generally safe, it’s essential to ensure that both are registered with the correct contact information.
Besides microchipping, what other identification methods should I use?
While microchipping is a crucial form of permanent identification, it’s best used in conjunction with other methods. A collar with identification tags is the most immediate way for someone to identify and contact you if your dog gets lost. The tag should include your dog’s name, your phone number, and ideally your address.
Consider using GPS tracking devices specifically designed for pets. These devices attach to your dog’s collar and allow you to track their location in real-time using a smartphone app. This can be particularly helpful if your dog tends to wander or if you live in an area with a high risk of pet theft. Remember that multiple layers of identification provide the best chance of reuniting with your beloved pet if they become lost.