August 15th is National Check the Chip Day, the perfect time to make sure your pet’s microchip is updated with your current contact information. It’s also a great time to discuss the importance of microchips and why every pet should have one!
Microchipping your pet is part of being a responsible pet parent and offers many benefits for both you and your pet. Here are just a few reasons why microchipping your pet is essential:
Identification: Microchips provide a permanent form of identification for your cat. Unlike collars and tags, which can fall off or be removed, a microchip is permanently implanted under the skin. Once implanted, the microchip remains in place for the lifetime of the cat so they can always be identified. The microchip contains an ID number specific to that animal as well as contact information for the company that created the chip. You can contact the microchip company and find out the contact information for the owner of the pet or the veterinarian that implanted the chip.
Reunification: If your cat goes missing, a microchip greatly increases the chances of being reunited with your pet. Animal shelters, rescues, veterinarians routinely scan lost pets for microchips, allowing them to quickly identify the owner and contact them to let them know their pet has been found.
Proof of Ownership: In situations where ownership of a pet is disputed, a microchip provides concrete evidence of ownership. This can be particularly important in cases of theft or custody disputes.
Prevention of Euthanasia: Unfortunately, many shelters are overcrowded, and stray animals without identification may be euthanized if they are not adopted or identified. A microchip significantly reduces the risk of this happening to your cat, as it shows they have an owner and provides a way for them to contact you.
Peace of Mind: Knowing that your pet has a microchip can provide peace of mind, especially if your cat is prone to wandering. Keeping your contact information updated will make it very easy for anyone who finds your pet to let you know they’ve been found.
Microchipping is part of being a responsible pet parent and offers many benefits for both you and your cat. A microchip provides a reliable means of identification and contact information, increases the chances of a lost pet being reunited with their owner, shows proof of ownership, helping to keep you and your pet happy together for years to come.
Love, Nala
