Check the Chip Day

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Check the Chip Day, observed annually on August 15, was created by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) to remind pet owners to ensure their pets are microchipped and, more importantly, that the microchip information is up to date. This simple step significantly increases the chances of reuniting lost pets with their families.

Why Microchipping is Important

Microchipping provides permanent identification that cannot be lost or removed, unlike collars and tags, which can break or fall off. A microchip is about the size of a grain of rice and is implanted under your pet’s skin with a quick injection, similar to a vaccination. The process is safe, causes minimal discomfort, and offers lifelong peace of mind.

While microchips are not GPS trackers, they contain a unique code linked to your contact information in a registry. When a lost pet is found, veterinarians or shelter staff can scan the microchip to retrieve the code, access the registry, and contact the pet owner.

The Importance of Keeping Information Current

A microchip is only as effective as the accuracy of the information linked to it. If you move, change your phone number, or adopt a new pet, it’s crucial to update your contact details in the microchip registry. Many registries also allow you to add important information about your pet, such as medical conditions or behavioral notes, which can help ensure their safety until they are reunited with you.

Microchipping Myths and Facts

  • Myth: Indoor pets don’t need microchips. Fact: Even indoor pets can escape unexpectedly. Microchipping increases the likelihood they will be returned if lost.
  • Myth: Collars and ID tags are enough. Fact: While collars are helpful, they can fall off. A microchip provides permanent identification that can’t be lost.
  • Myth: Microchipping is painful for pets. Fact: The procedure is quick and causes no more discomfort than a routine vaccination.

Travel and International Considerations

For those traveling or moving internationally with pets, the International Standards Organization (ISO) has established global microchip standards. Ensure your pet has an ISO-compliant microchip, especially if traveling abroad, as it increases the likelihood of a quick reunion if they become lost in another country.

The Impact of Microchipping

Research highlights the effectiveness of microchipping:

  • Dogs without microchips are returned to their owners about 22% of the time, compared to 52% for microchipped dogs.
  • Cats without microchips are reunited with their families only 2% of the time, while microchipped cats are returned home 39% of the time.*

How to Check and Update Your Pet’s Microchip

If your pet is already microchipped:

  1. Contact your veterinarian or local shelter to have the microchip scanned.
  2. Verify the microchip number and check your information in the registry.
  3. Use the AAHA Universal Pet Microchip Lookup Tool to identify the registry connected to your pet’s microchip.
  4. Update your contact details whenever necessary.

If your pet is not microchipped, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian or visit your local animal shelter. The procedure is quick, affordable, and could make all the difference in reuniting you with your beloved pet should they ever get lost.

By keeping your pet’s microchip information current, you increase the likelihood of a happy reunion if they ever become lost. Make Check the Chip Day a yearly reminder to ensure your contact information is accurate and up to date.

*Source: Lord et al, Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA), July 15, 2009.

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