February is pet theft awareness month! This month we are encouraging all pet owners to take steps to ensure their pets’ security and give you peace of mind. Every year, two million pets are stolen in America. Implanting a microchip is the best way to keep track of your pet in the event that they get lost or stolen.

Getting Microchipped

You can get your pet microchipped at your local veterinarian. Chips are injected using a hypodermic needle, so no surgery or anesthesia is needed and the procedure is relatively painless for your animal. Microchips typically cost around $45.

How It Works

The information contained in a microchip is limited to an identification number that allows shelters or veterinarians to contact pet owners through a registration database. Microchips are not a GPS device and will not pinpoint your pets’ location. Shelters that receive lost pets use chip scanners to identify pets that have a chip implanted. The information is then used to reunite owners with their pets.

My Pet Is Already Chipped!

Great! It’s important to keep all information related to your pets’ chip updated with your current contact information. If it’s been a while since you’ve updated it, check to make sure all the information is current at your next vet visit.

On top of microchips, having a collar with contact information and rabies tags is essential especially for dogs. Chips can only be used at a vet or shelter, but dog tags can help anyone return a lost dog or cat by providing a phone number to call or a home address. Even with the utmost caution, accidents can still happen and dogs and cats can end up lost, stolen, or missing in any number of circumstances. Having preparations in place like tags and microchips is a great way to make sure your furry friend makes their way back home.