What is a microchip?

A microchip is a tiny RFID (radio-frequency identification) device, roughly the size of a grain of rice, that a veterinarian injects beneath a pet's skin between the shoulder blades. Each microchip carries a unique identification number encoded within it. When a scanner passes over the implant site, it reads this number wirelessly and displays it on the scanner's screen.

The chip itself contains no battery and requires no maintenance. It is passive, meaning it only transmits its ID number when activated by a scanner. This makes it a permanent form of identification that cannot be lost, damaged, or removed like a collar or tag.

For a microchip to be useful, the identification number must be registered with a national pet recovery database. During registration, the owner's contact information is linked to the chip's ID number. When a lost pet is found and scanned by a shelter, veterinary clinic, or animal control, staff can look up the owner's details in the database and reunite the animal with its family.

Most vets in Austin can implant a microchip during a routine office visit. Find a local veterinarian to discuss whether microchipping is right for your pet and to ensure proper registration after implantation.