Not Microchipping Month? Why Wait?
It’s Not Microchip Your Pet Month—But Why Wait?
We’re still a few months away from National Microchipping Month, but why wait? Every day, pets go missing and end up being adopted out to new families. If your lost pet arrives at a shelter without a microchip, it might be microchipped and rehomed—making it nearly impossible for you to get your pet back.
Accidents can happen, even in the most careful households. What if someone leaves a door open and your indoor cat escapes? How would you feel if you never saw your beloved pet again? There’s no way to know if they were taken by a predator, adopted by someone who thought they were a stray, or even injured and treated at a hospital hours away. Without a microchip, the chances of reuniting with your pet are significantly lower.
Even the most vigilant pet owners aren’t immune. Imagine having your pet for 15 years and, one day, a visitor accidentally leaves the door ajar. Your pet panics and runs off. While there’s always a chance someone won’t scan for a chip, most shelters and vet clinics will check for one. If your pet is chipped and the information is up to date, it’s far more likely you’ll get the call that reunites you with your furry family member.
Why Microchips Are Essential
Microchips are more than just a safety net—they’re a lifeline for pets with medical conditions. If your pet requires medication for seizures, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease, a microchip can ensure that whoever finds them knows to seek appropriate care. A microchip can also help prove ownership, especially for purebred pets who are more susceptible to theft.
It’s crucial to microchip your pet as soon as possible. While some veterinarians prefer to wait until spaying or neutering, accidents don’t wait. Tiny pets or young animals may be at risk of being stolen, lost, or even exploited for breeding. Microchipping early gives you peace of mind that your pet can always find their way back to you.
Microchip Best Practices
• Choose the Right Microchip: Not all scanners can read every type of microchip. Make sure your chosen chip is compatible with local shelters and veterinary clinics.
• Register Your Chip: Many veterinarians will register the chip for you, but double-check that your contact information is correct. Visit the microchip company’s website to add an emergency contact and any medical information for your pet.
• Keep Your Info Updated: If you change your phone number, address, or email, update your registration. It’s easy to forget this step years later, but it’s critical for reuniting with your pet.
• Have a Backup Contact: In case your phone is lost or disconnected, a second contact ensures someone can still reach you.
Disaster Scenarios
Microchips have proven invaluable during natural disasters, such as California wildfires. Pets found in emergency zones often look unrecognizable—singed fur, weight loss, and injuries can make it hard to identify them by sight. Many displaced pets are taken to shelters or hospitals far from home, but a microchip bridges that gap, guiding them back to their families.
Holidays and Events: High-Risk Times for Lost Pets
Fireworks and loud celebrations are one of the leading causes of lost pets. While Fourth of July is widely recognized as a dangerous time for animals, other holidays and events like New Year’s Eve, Christmas, Super Bowl Sunday, and even local celebrations can create unexpected risks.
Many areas see an increase in the use of illegal fireworks during these times, causing pets to panic and flee. Cats and dogs who are normally calm indoors may bolt through open doors or windows in their fear. Some pets can run so far that they become disoriented and unable to find their way back home.
Microchipping provides a layer of security, ensuring that even if your pet runs off during a noisy celebration, there’s a greater chance they’ll be identified and returned to you.
Final Thoughts
Microchipping your pet might seem like a small task, but it could make a life-changing difference. It’s a simple, affordable way to protect your pet from being lost forever. Don’t wait for a specific month—take action today.
Helpful Resources
1. American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) - Microchipping FAQs
3. Petfinder - Microchipping 101
