Why it’s the Perfect Time to Chip Your Pet: A Pet Parent's Guide to Microchipping

As we approach the end of May, while we enjoy the fragrances from the flowers that are blooming, let’s keep awareness for pet safety and well-being in our frontal lobe. Among the many observances of this month, one stands out for its importance in safeguarding our furry friends: Chip Your Pet Month. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the significance of microchipping for your beloved pets and why now is the ideal time to ensure their safety.

Why Microchipping Matters

Microchipping is more than just a trend; it's a crucial aspect of responsible pet ownership. Unlike collars or tags, which can be lost or removed, a microchip provides a permanent form of identification for your pet. This tiny device, about the size of a grain of rice, is implanted just beneath the skin, typically between the shoulder blades.

The process is quick, virtually painless, and can be done during a routine visit to the veterinarian. Once implanted, the microchip emits a unique identification number when scanned by a compatible reader. This number is linked to your contact information in a national pet recovery database, allowing shelters, veterinarians, and animal control officers to reunite you with your pet should they ever become lost or separated.

In emergency situations, such as natural disasters or accidents, having your pet microchipped can expedite the identification process. Shelters and veterinary offices can quickly scan for a microchip and access your contact information, reducing the stress and time involved in reuniting you with your pet. This immediate access can be vital during chaotic times when pets are often displaced.

Keep in mind, microchips are recognized and scanned universally, not just in your local area. This means that if your pet gets lost while you're traveling or if someone finds your pet and takes them to a shelter or vet in a different region, the microchip can still be read and your contact information retrieved.

Benefits of Microchipping

Permanent Identification

Unlike collars and tags that can break or become illegible, a microchip provides a permanent form of identification for your pet throughout their lifetime.

Increased Chance of Return

Studies have shown that microchipped pets are significantly more likely to be reunited with their owners compared to those without microchips.

Quick and Painless Procedure

The process of implanting a microchip is quick, typically taking only a few seconds, and causes minimal discomfort to your pet.

Peace of Mind

Knowing that your pet has a reliable form of identification can provide peace of mind, especially in the event of natural disasters or unforeseen emergencies.

Getting Your Pet Microchipped

If you haven't already done so, now is the perfect time to schedule a microchipping appointment for your pet. Many veterinary clinics and animal shelters offer discounted or promotional rates during Chip Your Pet Month, making it an affordable investment in your pet's safety.

Universal Recognition

Microchips are recognized and scanned universally, not just in your local area.

During the appointment, your veterinarian will implant the microchip using a sterile needle, similar to a routine vaccination. Once implanted, be sure to update your contact information in the pet recovery database to ensure that you can be reached in case your pet is ever lost.

As responsible pet parents, it's our duty to take every precaution to keep our furry companions safe. Microchipping is a simple yet effective way to provide permanent identification for your pet, increasing the likelihood of a happy reunion should they ever go missing. So, this May, let's make a commitment to chip our pets and give them the gift of lifelong protection.

Michelson Found Animals Pet Wellness Event

Last month, the Aliso Pico Recreation Center became a haven of care and compassion as over 300 pets that received free essential services at the Michelson Found Animals Foundation's Free Pet Wellness Day. I had the pleasure of volunteering for this heartwarming event that was part of the Better Neighbor Project (BNP) and was organized in collaboration with Senator Maria Elena Durazo and Assembly member Miguel Santiago.

Throughout the day, pet owners had access to a variety of crucial services, including microchipping, vaccinations, flea treatments, and nail trimming. In addition to these services, the event provided pet supplies such as ID tags, collars, leashes, and food, ensuring that every pet's basic needs were met.

There was a significant turnout, with people traveling for hours and waiting in long lines, underscoring the crucial role pets play in their families.

Michelson Found Animals Foundation's Free Pet Wellness Day

Join us in celebrating the remarkable efforts of the Michelson Found Animals Foundation and the Better Neighbor Project, and let’s continue to support initiatives that keep pets happy, healthy, and home.

All the bestie, Steph