A Simple Reminder: Keep Your Dog’s Microchip Information Up to Date

What a Microchip Really Is (and What It Isn’t)

If you’re unfamiliar with microchips, they’re tiny identification tags implanted just beneath your dog’s skin. Their purpose is simple: to provide a permanent form of ID in case you and your dog ever become separated.

It’s important to understand that microchips are passive devices. They do not transmit signals, track your dog’s location, or function like GPS. They contain no battery and no internal power source. A microchip is simply a small capsule that holds a unique identification number—nothing more.

That number can only be read when a veterinarian or shelter uses a special scanner.

How Microchips Are Implanted

Most microchips are about the size of a large grain of rice. Veterinarians implant them using a syringe-like tool, usually between the dog’s shoulder blades. The process is quick, simple, and no more uncomfortable than a routine vaccination.

How Microchips Work

Microchips—also known as RFID (radio frequency identification) tags—store a single piece of information: a unique ID number. Think of it as your dog’s version of a Social Security number.

When a lost pet is scanned, the microchip’s number appears on the scanner. That number is then matched to the owner’s contact information stored in a registry database.

Every veterinary clinic and animal shelter should have a scanner available for this purpose.

Microchip Brands and Registries

There are several microchip brands and registry databases, and many registries accept multiple chip brands. Some of the most common include:

• AKC Reunite

• 24PetWatch

• HomeAgain

• PetLink

• Save This Life (which even uses Google search as part of its recovery system)

These registries store your contact information and link it to your dog’s unique microchip number. Your veterinarian can help you choose a system they trust and use regularly.

Why Registration Matters

If your lost pet is found and scanned, the microchip number will appear—but that number is only useful if it’s registered and linked to your current contact information.

A microchip alone does not reunite you with your dog.

A registered microchip does.

And even then, a microchip should never replace a physical ID tag on your dog’s collar. A simple tag with your phone number is often the fastest way for someone to contact you if they find your pet.

The Most Common Mistake Owners Make

Here’s the biggest takeaway:

Many people forget to register their microchip—or they fail to update their information when it changes.

If your phone number, address, or email is outdated, the registry cannot reach you. And if they can’t reach you, they can’t reunite you with your dog.

The microchip only works if the information behind it is accurate.

A Quick Action Step

If you haven’t checked your microchip registry information recently, take a moment to do it today. It only takes a few minutes, and it could make all the difference if your dog ever becomes lost.