What is Microchipping?
Dogs are part of the family so if they become lost it can be quite devastating for all concerned. Lost animals can end up in the pound or dog shelter where some are euthanized. In order to prevent this traumatic event from happening microchipping is used to help to locate dogs who have somehow wandered away from the family home. Affixing identifying information to your Cavoodle’s collar is another method you can use to ensure your pets are safely returned, but this is not foolproof as collars can be removed, or become loose and fall off. This is most likely with dogs that have wider necks such as Puggles and Beagliers but is possible with any dog.
Dog microchipping involves embedding an integrated circuit just under the surface of the skin of the animal. The chip is tiny, about the size of a grain of rice, and created from biocompatible materials to prevent allergic reactions, and also to ensure it is non-toxic. Insertion is simple and completed without anaesthesia; nor does the procedure require any recovery time. The chip is inserted via hypodermic needle just under the surface of the skin in the area between the shoulder blades at the back of the dog’s neck. If your dog happens to experience any discomfort at all rest assured it will be quickly forgotten about.
Each chip is programmed with an identifying number unique to that animal. This number is then recorded in a database against your contact details. Should your pet become lost and subsequently found by the council or turned in to animal welfare a quick scan – using RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology – will reveal how they can get in contact with you so you can be reunited with your pet. For this reason it’s vital that you keep these details up to date. Chips do not wear out or expire and remain with the dog throughout its lifespan.
Microchipping is mandatory for both dogs and cats in ACT, QLD, VIC, NSW, and VIC, but it is highly recommended to microchip your dog regardless of whether it is mandatory or not. To keep your details up to date it is a simple matter to visit http://www.petaddress.com.au/ and search for your pet’s microchip number. The website will then redirect you to the relevant database – currently there are 5 providers – who can then update your details should you need to. If you are unable to locate your pet’s ID with this method contact your vet, or wherever your dog was implanted, and ask them which database your pet is listed on.
Microchipping your pet provides a great deal of peace of mind and could prevent immeasurable heartache if your dog is somehow separated from the family home and becomes lost. If your pet is not yet microchipped then make an appointment either with your vet or an approved microchipping service and get it done as soon as possible. After all, you could be saving your dog’s life.
