Ridge Animal Hospital
Microchipping
Microchip identification is the most reliable way to reunite lost pets with their owners.
Why should I microchip my pet?
Microchip identification helps return an estimated 8,000 lost cats, dogs, and other animals to their homes every day. The procedure is safe, easy, and practically painless, and can provide tremendous peace of mind.”
How does microchipping work?
The microchip itself is about the size of a grain of rice. It contains a tiny metallic "bar code" surrounded by an inert membrane which makes it non-reactive when it is placed under the skin. The microchip is injected under the skin between the shoulder blades with a hypodermic-type syringe. Although the needle itself is larger than those used for vaccinations, most pets don't seem to notice it any more than other injections. Once the chip is in place, it should be there for the life of the pet, and we will register your microchip to ensure your contact information is associated with the bar code number. If the pet becomes lost, any animal care facilities (shelters, veterinary hospitals, pounds, etc.) can scan the pet for a microchip, using a microchip reader that is simply waved over the skin. These scanners are very reliable and easy to use. Once a microchip is found, a special hotline is called, and the lost pet is reported. The pet owner is then called immediately and given the contact information about where to pick up their pet.