Dog owners have many concerns when they bring a new four-legged buddy home, especially if they’re rehoming a pet and adopting from another owner.
From understanding their unique personality, to their food choices, temperaments, and health concerns, you have to learn everything from scratch.
But one major concern could be related to the microchip in your dog from the previous owner.
If you have adopted your pet from another owner, chances are that they may still have a microchip. This is a small chip inserted under your pet’s skin, typically near at the nape of the neck. These chips contain information about the owner, so it’s easier to find lost pets.
So what if your new dog already has one from the previous owner? Do you need to get it removed, or is it possible to update the information in the existing microchip? Don’t worry! It is a fairly simple process.
This blog post will discuss the importance of using a microchip and your options if your dog already has one.
What is a Microchip and Why is it Necessary?
A microchip is a tiny implant placed under an animal’s skin using an injection. This form of permanent identification can come in handy in case your pet gets lost. Of course, you can use a normal collar, but those aren’t permanent and may even chafe your dog’s neck.
Microchips are not only permanent but are quite private as well. With a dog collar, anyone can access your personal information, such as your address. But with a microchip, only you and the authorities can identify your pet.
You may be wondering if it is necessary to get your dog chipped. Studies show that over 52% of chipped dogs are returned home safely. This is just a good extra measure you can take to protect your fluffy friend.
Once you add your information to a microchip, it gets added to a database. If someone finds your lost pet, they can check for a possible microchip through a scanner and locate the owner.
How Do I Find Out If My Dog Has A Microchip?
If you’ve adopted your fluffy buddy from someone else, you may want to find out if they’ve already been chipped. One way to do this is by feeling around the nape of your dog’s neck. The microchip will feel like a grain of rice and is usually between their shoulder blades.
However, if this method doesn’t work, you can take your dog to your local vet. They will use a microchip scanner to locate it and let you know the details.
But what happens after you locate the microchip?
You have several options after this. You can contact your pet’s previous owner and ask them to fill out an ownership transfer form. Another way to do this is by directly contacting the microchip company.
They will let you know how you can change microchip information easily. But it is important to keep in mind that microchips don’t prove ownership. They are just a form of identification for your fluffy friend.
Can I Get My Dogs Microchip Deactivated?
Unfortunately, microchips cannot be deactivated since they are permanent. However, you can get them removed by taking your dog to the vet. But this shouldn’t be much of an issue since you can change the information on your dog’s microchip.
For some companies, there is also an option to change microchip details online. Although, keep in mind that some companies also charge for this feature. Your vet can help with this process and might do it for free!
How To Change Microchip Details?
Getting your dog chipped is only the first step in keeping them safe. You also have to add your details to the registry. This makes it easier for people to bring your pet to you if they ever get lost.
Adding your information to a registry also helps you update it easily. This way, if you change numbers or your address, people can still locate you if your dog gets lost. But how do you change microchip details?
Firstly you’ll need the chip number and brand. This can be found by either scanning the chip or asking your vet if they have it in their records. Most registries have a website so that you can enter this number and access all the information.
You can then easily update your contact information on the website. If that doesn’t work, you can call the registry and ask them to do it for you.
Should I Get My Dog Double Chipped?
If your dog has a microchip from the previous owner, you may think about getting another one added with your own information. This isn’t necessary at all, especially since the information can be changed easily. The only reason you should get another chip is if the first one has stopped working.
However, if you don’t want a microchip for your dog at all, you can always ask your vet to remove it.
Benefits of a Microchip
Did you know that many lost pets end up at the shelter? Not only can this make it harder for you to locate your pet, but it can make them anxious too. Getting your dog chipped increases their chances of returning to you.
It is also easier to find your dog at a shelter if they are chipped. Let’s be honest; many dogs from the same breed tend to look the same. The microchip implant could be the only way to find your pet.
You can also get your dog microchipped as young as eight weeks. This helps prevent any tantrums later on. Puppies are also more likely to get lost, so this extra step can help you keep them safe.
Are There Any Disadvantages To Microchips?
Since every dog is different, some could experience adverse effects after getting a microchip injected. One of the disadvantages of getting your dog chipped is the implant moving around their body. Although this is a rare occurrence, it is possible.
Luckily your vet can help fix this issue and relocate the chip. Some dogs may face issues like hair loss where the chip is inserted. If your dog is showing adverse effects to getting a microchip, contact your vet immediately.
Final Takeaway
No matter how careful you are, we’ve all accidentally left the door open or loosened our grip on the leash. Dogs are full of energy and excitement, running around the first opportunity they get. Getting your dog chipped helps keep them safe and can make it easier for you to locate them if they get lost.
Although microchips do not work like GPS, they are still pretty effective. Even if your puppy has a microchip from their previous owner, it can be changed easily.
We hope this article answers all your microchip-related questions.
