Microchipping

What is a Microchip?

A microchip is a very small device, about the size of a grain of rice, that is placed under an animal's skin using a hypodermic needle - much like giving the animal a shot. The microchip contains a unique identification number that matches up with the owner's contact information maintained in a database. When a scanner is passed over the chip, the scanner displays the number. If the owner's contact information is up to date in the microchip database, the owner can be located quickly.

Microchips are extremely important for keeping your pets safe. Microchips greatly increase the chances that pets will be reunited with their families if they are lost or stolen…but a microchip only works if its registration information is accurate.

Pet owners, make an appointment with your veterinarian for microchipping if your pet isn’t already microchipped (then make sure that your pet’s chip is immediately registered). Check your already-microchipped pet’s registration information in the microchip manufacturer’s database, and make sure it’s up-to-date.

How do i update my pet’s microchip information?

To update your pet’s registration, you’ll need your pet’s microchip number. If you haven’t already created an account with the manufacturer, you’ll need to do that as well so you can access the registration in the future to update the information. Make sure that all of the information, particularly your phone number(s) and address, are correct.

There are many databases that allow you to register your pet’s microchip, but the one that really counts – the one that animal shelters and veterinarians will search – is the database maintained by the manufacturer of your pet’s microchip. Universal Pet Microchip Lookup Tool is linked to the registries of the majority of microchip manufacturers and allows a quick database search of any microchip made by these manufacturers. In addition, a number of public microchip registries have also been linked to the AAHA Universal Pet Microchip Lookup Tool to make it easier to find a microchip’s registration.

Does my adopted pet from Angel of Hope have a microchip?

Yes! Angel of Hope microchips all the pets that come through our program. When you adopt an animal from us, we will provide you with all of the animals medical records. At the top of the medical records, is where you will find their microchip number.

Please double check the contact information on any pets that you own that have microchips - and that all of the your info (name, contact info, etc.) is correct!