The law requires that dogs, cats and ferrets are legally identified through a microchip or a tattoo in many countries. However, regardless of the legal issues and the fines that you'll be charged if your pet is not clearly identified, a microchip will help you to find your little friend and bring them home safely if they get lost. In OneHowTo.com we'll explain what a microchip in a dog does.
We've already stated that a microchip is, in many countries, a legal obligation. In fact, in these places, if your dog does not have a microchip, it will not be able to receive vaccines that will keep them protected from diseases. If this is not enough to convince you of its usefulness, perhaps the penalties incurred will be: a fine of up to £300.
A microchip is a tiny electronic device. With a size similar to that of a grain of rice, this integrated caplet-shaped circuit contains an alphanumeric code that identifies all of the dog's and, most importantly, the pet owner's data.
The microchip is inserted with a special syringe subcutaneously, and is painless. You can be assured that this way of identifying and locating your dog will not cause your furry friend discomfort. In addition, it remains invisible under the skin, without affecting their appearance in any way at all.
When reading the microchip code, a piece of equipment is passed over the back of the neck (where the chip is usually located). This will show a number on the screen, which is impossible to manipulate. Also, your dog does not need to have another microchip implanted again because these devices last 25 years, or even up to half a century.
If your pet gets lost and taken to a shelter, it will always be identified by the shelter's personnel, therefore identifying their owner and address. If someone on the street finds a dog and takes it to the vet instead of an animal shelter, a veterinarian should also be able to read the microchip.
Finally you should know that the microchip does not cause any type of allergic reaction in your pet as it is covered in a hypoallergenic and bio-compatible material. In rare cases, the microchip may move and hinder its reading. However, this is prevented by regular visits to the vet, who will check that the device is still in place.
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