Microchipping Your Pet: Why It’s Essential
We’re still a few months away from National Pet Microchipping Month, but don't 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. Even worse, some pets are considered unadoptable.
I’ve been a pet parent for over 25 years, and microchipping my pets is a top priority because they’re family—they’re like my kids. I could never risk losing them. Whenever my pets have a veterinarian checkup, their microchip is scanned to ensure it’s still working and hasn’t migrated. My cat, Martin, had to be microchipped and registered a second time after his original microchip migrated to his chest and abdominal area. My other cat, Lily, also needed a second microchip because the first one couldn’t be found. If either of them had gotten lost, no one would have known they had a home.
Many pet owners assume that if their pet is microchipped, they will be contacted immediately if their lost pet is found. However, this is not always the case, depending on the microchip registry.
For example, 24PetWatch only actively contacts owners by phone if they have a premium membership. If the membership has expired or was never upgraded, the company typically only sends an email—which could easily end up in a spam folder or go unnoticed. This is especially concerning since many adopted pets come pre-microchipped with 24PetWatch but remain unregistered by the new owner, leaving only the rescue’s information on file. Even owners who do register may not realize they won’t get a phone call unless they upgrade to a premium plan.
By contrast, AVID (PETtrac Pet Recovery Network) and HomeAgain offer more proactive lost pet recovery services. HomeAgain’s premium membership includes direct phone calls to pet owners, while even their basic registration allows finders to access owner contact details—unlike 24PetWatch, which does not provide finder access to the owner's information. Additionally, you can register any microchip, including a 24PetWatch chip, with AVID or HomeAgain to increase the chances of a swift reunion if your pet is lost.
After learning this, I’ve decided to register my pets with AVID and HomeAgain for added security. Some pet owners even choose to microchip their pets a second time with a different provider for extra peace of mind.
*If your pet has a 24PetWatch chip, I strongly encourage you to register it with AVID or HomeAgain so that shelters, vets, and even good samaritans can easily reach you if your pet is found. Of course, you can also pay the premium for 24Petwatch, but just in case, register with a second agency. A simple registration could make all the difference in getting your lost pet home quickly and safely.
Pets Can Escape
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.
Make a note in your calendar to check your microchip data online every year. Example: My 17-year old dog was registered with an old phone number and an old email that I used 17 years ago. My younger pets have a current phone number and email.
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 Prep and Pets
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 on Microchips
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
3 Petfinder - Microchipping 101
Microchip Registries (Not a Complete List)
- AKC Reunite™ https://www.akcreunite.org
- AVID™ https://www.avidid.com
- Digital Angel® https://www.digitalangel.com
- 24 PET WATCH™ https://www.24petwatch.com
- Home Again® https://www.homeagain.com
- PetLink™ https://www.petlink.net
- ResQ® https://www.resqpet.com
- Trovan® https://www.trovan.com
