Microchip Pet Identification
Pet Microchipping in Surprise, AZ
Every year, millions of pets go missing. Without permanent identification, many never find their way home. At Animal Medical Center of Surprise, we provide a quick, safe, and permanent solution to help reunite you with your pet if the unthinkable happens.
What is a Microchip?
A microchip is a tiny electronic device, roughly the size of a grain of rice. It is not a GPS tracker; rather, it is a permanent ID that cannot fall off, be removed, or become illegible over time.¹ It is a safe, permanent way to identify your pet in case he or she becomes lost.
How the Process Works:
- Simple Implantation: Using a specialized needle, we place the chip just under the loose skin between your pet's shoulder blades. The procedure is as quick and painless as a routine vaccination.
- Unique ID Number: Each chip carries a unique identification number that is transmitted via low-frequency radio waves when scanned.
- Universal Scanning: If your pet is found, any animal shelter or veterinary clinic can use a handheld scanner to read the chip and retrieve your contact information from the national database.²
Why Microchipping is So Important
Even the most careful pet owners face risks. A gate left open by a contractor, a slipped collar during a walk, or a startled pet bolting during a thunderstorm can all lead to a lost companion.
- Permanent Protection: Unlike collars and ID tags, which can break or be removed, a microchip stays with your pet for life.
- Proof of Ownership: A registered microchip serves as legal evidence of ownership.
- Peace of Mind: Studies show that microchipped dogs are over twice as likely to be returned home, and microchipped cats are 20 times more likely to be reunited with their owners.³
We Chip More Than Just Dogs & Cats!
Identification is just as important for our unique companion animals. Our team is experienced in microchipping a variety of species, including:
- Ferrets & Rabbits
- Birds
- Other small companion animals
The Most Important Step: Registration
A microchip is only effective if your contact information is up to date in the manufacturer's database. When we chip your pet, we will provide you with the necessary paperwork to ensure your phone number and address are correctly linked to your pet’s ID number.
Already have a chip? We are happy to scan your pet during their next wellness exam to ensure the chip is functioning and correctly positioned.
Protect Your Pet Today
Don’t wait until your pet goes missing to think about identification. If you're in the Suprise, Arizona area, contact our team at (623) 295-1811 to schedule a quick microchipping appointment.
Sources & Resources
- AVMA: Microchipping FAQ for Pet Owners
- American Humane: Everyday Miracles: The Importance of Microchipping
- Journal of the AVMA: Reuniting Lost Pets with Their Owners: The Efficacy of Microchips
