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microchip dog and cat in Skowhegan, ME

Millions of pets get lost every year, and not all of them are reunited with their families. Approximately 6 to 8 million animals end up in shelters every year, and many of these are lost family pets. A microchip can greatly increase an animal’s chances of being identified at a shelter and returned home. Only roughly 5% of dogs and less than 1% of cats have a microchip.

The Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association published a study revealing that compared to the 22% of lost dogs without a microchip that were reunited with their families, the return rate for microchipped dogs was 238% higher, at over 52%. Likewise, only about 2% of cats without a microchip returned to their owners, while over 38% of those microchipped were returned to their families.

 

For an example of just how helpful a microchip can be, check out this story about Romeo the cat, who was found 120 miles from home!

A microchip is a transponder similar in size to a grain of rice. This chip is inserted under the skin at the back of the neck/between the shoulder blades, where it will remain for life. Each microchip has its own unique ID number, which must be registered with your contact information into a pet recovery database.

 

Unfortunately, just a little over half of all microchipped pets have a chip that is properly registered. If your pet’s chip number cannot be traced back to you, you are less likely to be reunited.

Microchipping is simple. Schedule an appointment or arrange to have your pet microchipped while they’re undergoing surgery or a dental cleaning. We will then give you the information you need to register your pet’s microchip (which we recommend doing as soon as possible). If you and your pet move, update your contact information in the pet recovery database right away. For more information, please give us a call at (207) 474-8376.