What is a Microchip?

A pet microchip is a tiny radio-frequency identification (RFID) transponder, roughly the size of a grain of rice, that is implanted under the skin of a cat or dog. Each microchip contains a unique identification number that can be read by a scanner. This number is linked to the owner's contact information in a registration database, providing a permanent, tamper-proof form of identification.

Unlike collars and tags, which can fall off, break, or be removed, a microchip stays with your pet for life.

How It Works

  1. Implantation: A veterinarian injects the microchip under the skin between the shoulder blades using a hypodermic needle. No anesthesia is required — the procedure is similar to a routine vaccination.
  2. Scanning: When a lost pet is found and brought to a shelter, veterinary clinic, or animal control facility, staff scan the animal with a universal microchip reader.
  3. Identification: The scanner reads the unique ID number. Staff then contact the microchip registry to obtain the owner's contact information.
  4. Reunion: The owner is contacted, and the pet is returned home.

Why Microchipping Matters

The statistics are compelling:

  • Microchipped dogs are returned to their owners 52% of the time, compared to 22% for non-microchipped dogs
  • Microchipped cats are returned 38% of the time, compared to only 2% for non-microchipped cats
  • Approximately 1 in 3 pets will go missing at some point in their lives
  • Collars and tags are found on only 13–33% of lost pets when they arrive at shelters

The Procedure

  • Quick: Takes less than 30 seconds
  • Low pain: Similar to a blood draw; most pets barely react
  • No anesthesia needed: Though it's often done during a spay/neuter procedure for convenience
  • Any age: Can be implanted in puppies and kittens as young as 8 weeks
  • One-time procedure: The chip lasts the lifetime of the pet (25+ years)
  • No maintenance: No batteries, no charging, no replacement needed

Registration is Essential

A microchip is only as good as its registration. The chip itself contains only a number — the owner's contact information is stored in a separate database. After implantation:

  1. Register the chip with the manufacturer's database (and/or a universal registry)
  2. Keep your information current — update your address and phone number if you move or change numbers
  3. Provide an alternate contact in case you cannot be reached

The most common reason microchipped pets are not returned is unregistered or outdated contact information.

Microchipping is mandatory in many jurisdictions:

  • Required in many Canadian municipalities
  • Required across the European Union
  • Required in the United Kingdom and Australia
  • Many rental agreements and pet insurance policies require it
  • Required for international pet travel

Check your local bylaws for specific requirements.

Common Questions

Can a microchip track my pet's location?

No. A microchip is a passive device with no GPS capability and no battery. It can only be read by a scanner held close to the animal. For GPS tracking, a separate collar-mounted device is needed.

Can the chip move or cause problems?

Microchip migration is rare (occurring in <1% of cases) and, when it does happen, the chip typically moves only a short distance and can still be detected with a full-body scan. Adverse reactions are extremely uncommon.

What if my pet already has a collar and tags?

Use both. Collars and tags provide immediate visual identification, while the microchip serves as a permanent backup. They complement each other.

Does it hurt my pet?

The implantation causes brief, mild discomfort — similar to a vaccination. Most pets do not react significantly, and no aftercare is needed.

Cost

Microchipping typically costs $50–$75 CAD, including the chip, implantation, and initial registration. Many shelters include microchipping in their adoption fee. It is one of the most affordable and effective investments you can make for your pet's safety.

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