Microchipping your Dog
The most basic security measure a dog owner can take to protect their pet is to get a dog tag or license that your pup wears around their neck. Because even the most well-trained, well-behaved dog has a mind of their own, they have a tendency to want to explore new places, and this can sometimes lead to them wandering off and not knowing how to return from where they started.
The microchip is a more modern identification techniques to help reunite you with your dog if they ever get lost. But, these methods of pet identification have their limitations, and those limits are based on the fact that the owners’ information will not change, and that the finder knows how the pet is tagged.
The most recognizable form of identifying a lost dog is the pet tag or license. The pet tag is not a new invention, nor is it high tech, but it is still the most recognized means of identifying a lost pet. Combine this with a microchip and the odds of having your lost pup returned safely is greatly increased. Pet tags and microchips are two common ways to identify your pet in case they get lost or stolen. Both have their pros and cons, and some pet owners choose to use both for extra security.
Here is a brief comparison of pet tag and microchip:
Pet tag
A pet tag is a small plastic or metal tag that you can attach to your dog’s collar or harness. It contains information that can help someone contact you if they find your lost dog. A pet tag usually has your dog’s name, your phone number, and your address. Some pet tags may also have medical information, microchip details, or a reward offer. A pet tag is a simple and inexpensive way to identify your dog and increase the chances of getting them back home safely.
Pros and Cons of a Pet Tag
Pros:
- Easy to see and read,
- Can be personalized,
- Low cost,
- No need for a scanner
Cons:
- Can fall off,
- Get damaged,
- Can be removed,
- May not have enough space for all the information
- The contact information needs to be updated if you move or get a new phone number
Microchip:
A dog microchip is a tiny device that can help identify your pet if they get lost or stolen. It is implanted under the skin of your dog and contains a unique code that can be read by a scanner. You need to register the microchip with your contact information and keep it updated. A microchip is not a GPS tracker so it can not geolocate your dog and does not provide real-time tracking like GPS devices. They only help identify your dog after your pet has been found. The microchip does not require batteries and can last up to 25 years. It is a simple and safe procedure that can be performed by your veterinarian. The implantation process is quick, lasting only a few seconds, and causes minimal discomfort to your pet. Microchips help reunite lost pets with their owners. If your dog gets lost and someone takes them to a vet or shelter, they can scan the microchip to retrieve your contact information. You must register the microchip with the agency for it to be effective, otherwise, they won’t have and maintain your contact information.
Pros and Cons of a Dog Microchip
Pros:
- Permanent,
- Secure,
- Can store more information than a standard metal or plastic dog tag,
- Can be updated online
Cons:
- Not visible,
- Requires a scanner,
- May cause discomfort during implantation,
- Registration fee
- Your contact information needs to be updated online if you move or get a new phone number.
The combination of dog tag and microchip is the most secure option available. But at a minimum one of these options should be used to help ensure your dog makes it way back home if it ever gets lost.
