Microchipping

Though we don’t want to consider our pet getting lost, it’s important to put measures in place to ensure they’ll make it home safely if they do. We recommend microchipping as an effective identification to help a veterinary team or shelter identify your pet if they’re brought in. Please schedule an appointment at 403-337-3221 to have your pet microchipped.

How does pet microchipping work?

Microchips aren’t like GPS devices that track your pet’s current location. When a handheld device is passed over the area the microchip was implanted, a veterinary team or shelter staff will be able to detect it. After the device detects the unique identification number, they can retrieve your contact information via a pet recovery database. It’s important to keep your contact information up-to-date by notifying us if there are any changes.

My pet has a collar with tags. Do they still need a microchip?

Collars and tags are great pet identification when combined with other methods like microchipping. We don’t recommend collars and tags on their own since they can get lost or easily removed. If your pet does wear a collar and tags, be sure to keep your contact information current. Though no method of pet identification is fully effective, using whatever you have access to increases the chances of your pet making it back home to you safely. Other things you can do to try and prevent your pet from getting lost are:

• Ensuring your pet yard and home are escape-proof
• Paying close attention to your pet when they are off their leash or during outside outings
• Preparing a plan in case your pet gets lost

Does a pet’s microchip need to be replaced?

A microchip is a permanent identification method so it will never need to be replaced! But there are very rare cases where the chip might be defective.) It doesn’t use batteries or any other technology that would need to be changed. They are rice grain-sized devices that usually last for life when implanted in your pet’s skin.