Once your pet is microchipped, it’s tempting to assume the job is done. But like any good safety tool, a microchip works best when you check it every once in a while to make sure everything is still working properly. A faulty microchip (although rare) or outdated contact information can make the difference in being reunited with a lost pet. Chase Oaks Animal Clinic promotes regular pet microchip checks as an easy but crucial habit for responsible pet owners.
Can Pet Microchips Fail?
Microchips are constructed to last a lifetime, but certain factors can affect their performance.
- The chip may malfunction due to manufacturing defects.
- A microchip can be placed too deep or shift out of optimal scanning range.
- Your contact info could be missing or outdated in the registry.
The good news? These issues are easily preventable with quick annual check-ins. Even if your pet had their microchipping performed years ago and had a successful scan since then, it’s still a good idea to have their microchip checked.
How to Check If Your Pet’s Microchip Is Working
The best way to verify that your pet’s microchip is functional is by asking your vet to scan it during a routine wellness exam. It only takes a few seconds. The veterinarian will wave a scanner over your pet, which “wakes up” the chip to transmit the ID number. Make sure to confirm that the number matches the ID number that was registered online. If your pet’s chip isn’t detected or there’s a registry error, talk to the veterinarian about next steps. Having an active, working chip is very important. Properly microchipped pets may be twice as likely to make their way home to you!
How to Update Your Pet’s Microchip Info
Once you have the chip number, log in to the corresponding registry. Check for:
- Accurate phone numbers, email addresses, etc.
- Updated emergency contacts
- Secondary owners or caretakers (if applicable)
If you’re not sure where the chip is registered, you can use the pet microchip number to look for the registry using the AAHA Microchip Registry Lookup Tool. This tool will only work if you have your pet’s ID number. For pet owners who have adopted a rehomed pet, make sure to talk to the previous owner or shelter about microchip information.
Signs It’s Time to Double-Check a Microchip
Give your pet’s microchip a review if:
- Your contact details (like a phone number) have changed
- Your pet was adopted or rehomed
- It’s been over a year since their last chip scan
- You can’t remember if the chip was ever registered (it may not be!)
Make Sure Your Pet’s Microchip is Working with Chase Oaks Animal Clinic
Microchipping is one of the most reliable forms of pet ID, but it only works if it can be scanned and linked to your current contact info. A yearly scan takes seconds and could be the main factor in getting your pet back if they go missing. Chase Oaks Animal Clinic is happy to include this as part of your pet’s wellness routine for pets in Plano, TX, or nearby cities like Allen or McKinney. Contact us for a quick microchip scan or pet microchipping in Plano.
