What is a microchip?
A microchip is a tiny transponder (about the size of a grain of rice) that is implanted under the skin in pets. The chip is usually implanted between the shoulder blades.
What sort of information does the microchip hold?
Microchips permanently identify the animal with a unique number. The microchip itself contains no other information.
How can a microchip number be used to track my pet?
If your pet is found, veterinarians and pet rescue groups will scan your pet for a chip. There are a certain number of microchip companies in each region of the world – local companies are then contacted and the number is referenced.
Once there is a match with a microchip company, the company will contact the pet’s owner.
What information do I need to provide the microchip company?
When your pet is microchipped, you must register your pet with the microchip’s manufacturer. Your name, home address, phone numbers and email address are submitted. Your pet’s name, breed, sex, special markings or colouring will be registered as well. Some companies recommend submission of a photograph.
It is very important to update this information if you move or if your phone number changes.
How much does a microchip cost?
Microchipping costs vary depending on where you live. Some companies will also charge a fee for storing your contact information. This fee may be paid one time or as a “yearly membership.” Contact your local veterinarian for more details.
Is microchipping painful for my pet?
Microchipping is a quick and relatively painless procedure. Your veterinarian may inject a little anesthetic into the skin before implanting the microchip. The chip is implanted using a syringe applicator, much like vaccination. The discomfort involved is similar to that of vaccination. Microchips are often implanted at the same time as the spay or neuter surgery – while the pet is under anesthesia.
Are there different types of microchips?
Yes. The types are called ISO and non-ISO. ISO chips are used widely in Europe but some pets may receive non-ISO chips in North America.
My pet has a non-ISO chip, which was implanted in Canada. Is this a problem?
Microchip scanners nowadays are “universal” and will read all types of chips. Non-ISO chips are only a problem if the pet is to be exported from North America.
We are moving to Germany. Does my pet have the right microchip?
All pets in Europe receive ISO microchips, which are acceptable for movement within the European Union. Your veterinarian will record the microchip number on your pet passport.
However, if you are bringing your pet from North America, be sure that an ISO microchip is placed. Your veterinarian can scan your pet to be sure that the microchip is correct for import to Europe. If your pet has a non-ISO chip, it is not a problem to implant a second ISO chip.
My pet is lost and has a microchip. What can I do?
- Contact your microchip company and report your pet as lost or stolen. Many microchip companies will distribute a “lost pet” report to local animal control, rescue groups and veterinarians.
- Directly contact your local animal control, veterinarians and pet shelters with your pet’s information, recent photograph, and microchip number.
- If you think your pet has been stolen, contact your local police.
I don’t know what company manufactured my pet’s chip. How can I find out?
Type your pet’s microchip number into Europetnet’s ID search engine. It will inform you of the chip company’s name and contact information.
