Debunking Common Myths About Pet Microchipping
What is Pet Microchipping?
Before diving into the myths, it's essential to understand what microchipping entails. A microchip is a small, electronic chip enclosed in a glass cylinder about the size of a grain of rice. It's inserted under your pet's skin, typically between the shoulder blades, using a hypodermic needle. Each chip has a unique identification number that can be read by a scanner, helping to reunite lost pets with their owners.
Myth 1: Microchipping is Harmful
One of the most prevalent concerns among pet owners is that microchipping might cause significant pain or harm to their animals.
The Truth:
Microchipping is a quick and relatively painless procedure, similar to a routine vaccination. The process involves injecting the microchip under the pet's skin using a hypodermic needle. While the pet may feel a slight pinch, the discomfort is minimal and momentary. Most pets tolerate the procedure well without the need for anaesthesia or sedation. Microchips are safe and biocompatible, causing no harm to pets.
According to veterinary experts, the brief discomfort of microchipping is far outweighed by the long-term benefits of having a permanent form of identification for your pet.
Myth 2: Microchipping is Expensive
Another common misconception is that microchipping is a costly procedure that many pet owners can't afford.
The Truth:
Microchipping is generally an affordable procedure. The average cost for microchipping a pet ranges from R200 to R450, depending on the service provider. Many animal shelters and organizations like the SPCA often offer microchipping at reduced costs or include it in adoption fees.
Considering the lifelong benefits and increased chances of reuniting with a lost pet, microchipping proves to be a cost-effective investment in your pet's safety.
Myth 3: Microchips Are Trackers
A widespread misunderstanding is that microchips can track a pet's location in real-time, similar to GPS devices.
The Truth:
Microchips are not GPS devices and do not provide real-time tracking of your pet's location. Instead, they serve as a permanent form of identification. When a lost pet is found and scanned, the microchip reveals a unique identification number. This number is then used to retrieve the owner's contact information from a secure database.
While microchips can't actively track your pet, they significantly increase the chances of reuniting with a lost pet. According to studies, microchipped dogs are over twice as likely to be returned to their owners, and microchipped cats are over twenty times more likely to be returned compared to those without microchips.
Myth 4: Microchips Need to be Replaced
Some pet owners worry that microchips "die" and will need regular replacement. Or that if they want to change the database company they'll need to replace the microchip.
The Truth:
Microchips use Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology and do not require batteries. They remain inert until activated by a scanner. This means that once implanted, a microchip can last for the lifetime of your pet without needing replacement or maintenance.
You don't need to remove and replace the microchip to change the microchip company. You can register the microchip number with any database provider.
If you immigrate we recommend you register your pet's microchip number on a local database.
Myth 5: Only Outdoor Pets Need Microchips
There's a common belief that indoor pets don't need microchipping since they don't go outside.
The Truth:
Even indoor pets can escape or get lost. Accidents happen - doors or windows can be left open, natural disasters can occur, or pets might slip out during home repairs or moves. Statistics show that a significant percentage of lost pets are indoor cats, emphasizing the importance of microchipping for all pets, regardless of their living situation.
Myth 6: Once a pet is microchipped, my contact information is automatically up to date
Pet owners sometimes think that once they've got their pet chipped they're good to go.
The Truth:
You need to register the microchip and update your contact information if it changes to ensure you can be reached if your pet is found. It's crucial to keep your contact details current in the microchip database. If you move or change phone numbers, make sure to update this information with the microchip registry. This ensures that if your pet is found, you can be quickly contacted. You can check your details here: Identipet [Management Application]
Myth 7: Microchips replace the need for ID tags
If your pet has an ID why should you put a collar and tag on?
The Truth:
Microchips are a permanent form of identification, but ID tags are still important as a visible and immediate way to identify your pet. While microchips provide a fail-safe method of identification, they require a scanner to read. ID tags, on the other hand, offer instant visual identification. They allow anyone who finds your pet to contact you directly without the need for a trip to a vet or welfare. For the best protection, use both microchips and ID tags.
Conclusion
Microchipping is a safe, affordable, and effective way to increase the chances of reuniting with a lost pet. By debunking these common myths, we hope to encourage more pet owners to consider this simple yet crucial procedure. Remember, microchipping is not a substitute for collars and tags but an additional layer of protection for your beloved pets. Any type of animal can be microchipped, not just cats and dogs.
According to the Indoor Pet Initiative in the U.S. 73% of owners of lost dogs and cats were found when their pets were microchipped. Human Animal Support Services (HASS) reports that pets with microchips are three times more likely to get home compared to those without. While specific statistics about microchipping rates in South Africa are not readily available, the practice is recognised and utilised here. Several services and databases facilitate pet identification and recovery. For instance, community projects like Find My Chip provide a Universal Microchip Search feature. This simplifies the process of finding a pet's owner via their chip number. Additionally, national animal databases maintained by services like Identipet allow access to pet details linked to microchip numbers, aiding in the recovery of lost pets. These initiatives underscore the importance and effectiveness of microchipping in ensuring the safe return of lost pets in South Africa.
Always consult with your veterinarian for more information about microchipping and to address any specific concerns you may have about your pet's health and safety.