While we’re not a substitute for your veterinarian, we are often asked whether having your pet microchipped is a good idea.
The answer is a simple one: YES!
A 2009 study by the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine reported that dogs with microchips were 2.5 times more likely than those without to be returned home – while microchipped cats were 20 times more likely to be returned home than those without.
And a study in the “Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association” that surveyed 53 U.S. animal shelters said the return-to-owner rate for microchipped dogs was 52 percent, compared to just 22 percent for all dogs. The return-to-owner rate for microchipped cats was 38 percent, compared to just 2 percent for all cats.
Meantime, the American Humane Association estimated that more than 10 million dogs and cats are lost or stolen each year in the United States. It said one in three pets will become lost at some time in their lives.
Some people worry that inserting the microchip will cause their pets undue pain, but the fact is, a microchip is no bigger than a grain of rice and the pain level is no more than that of a simple vaccination.
Others are concerned about high costs, but a quick internet search shows that many veterinarians will perform the service for $25 to $50. Many people have the procedure done at the same time as spaying, neutering or other surgery.
Still not convinced? Maybe the words of famed dog behaviorist Cesar Millan will sway you.
“I think it’s so much safer than other forms of identification. If your dog gets lost, he might lose his collar and tags; if your dog is stolen, the thief might remove his collar and tags,” he wrote on cesarsway.com. “With a microchip, you can help people who find your dog find you and if someone else says it’s their dog, you can prove the dog is yours.”
“They make some neat stuff that works with your dog’s microchip, too. Like a pet door that recognizes your dog’s chip and lets him into the house (but not the raccoon that comes by later).”
We understand you love your pets — and want to keep them safe and around as long as possible. That’s why we highly recommend the use of microchips.
AG
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