Microchipping Myths

Myth 1: Microchips Are GPS Trackers

Fact: Microchips are a form of identification, not tracking devices.

One of the most prevalent misconceptions is that microchips work like GPS trackers. In reality, microchips serve as permanent identification, providing a unique code linked to your contact information stored in a DEFRA-compliant database. Although they don't offer real-time tracking of your pet's location, these devices significantly improve the likelihood of a reunion if your lost pet is found and scanned with a microchip scanner by a vet, animal shelter, or other professional body.

Myth 2: Microchipping Is Painful For Pets

Fact: Minimal discomfort during implantation.

Some pet keepers worry that microchipping is painful for their furry friends. In truth, the process is relatively quick and causes minimal discomfort, similar to a routine vaccination. A microchip is around the size of a grain of rice; it's tiny. Veterinary professionals and trained implanters use a sterile needle to implant the tiny chip under the pet's skin, usually between the shoulder blades. Most pets barely notice it; the benefits far outweigh the momentary discomfort.

Myth 3: Microchip Information Can Be Accessed By Anyone

Fact: Microchip information is secure and accessible to the right person at the right time.

Concerns about privacy and unauthorised access to microchip information are unfounded. DEFRA-compliant Microchip databases, like Animal Tracker, are highly secure, and the data can only be accessed by authorised personnel at organisations such as vet practices, animal charities, or local authorities.

Myth 4: Veterinarians Automatically Register Pets When Microchipping Them

Fact: Registering your pet is your responsibility, not the vet's.

There's a common misconception among pet keepers that once a vet implants a microchip, they automatically register the pet for them. However, it's crucial to understand that registering your pet's microchip is your responsibility as a pet keeper. While veterinarians play a vital role in the microchipping world, they do not automatically register your pet. It's essential to take the necessary steps to ensure your pet's microchip is registered on a DEFRA-compliant database like Animal Tracker with your contact information. This ensures that if your furry friend ever gets lost, they can reunite you quickly.

Myth 5: Microchips Replace The Need For Collars And Tags

Fact: Microchips complement but don't replace traditional identification.

While microchips provide a permanent and tamper-proof form of identification, visible, engraved tags with contact information make it easier for everyday people to assist in a lost pet's return. An engraved tag must include your name and address. The address must consist of your house number and postcode to be compliant. It's responsible pet keepership and law to use both for comprehensive pet identification.

Debunking these microchip myths is crucial for pet keepers to embrace this technology confidently. Microchipping is a safe and effective way to protect your pet in case they get lost. By understanding the facts, you can contribute to your pet's safety and increase the likelihood of a happy reunion should they ever go astray. It's a small investment for a lifetime of peace of mind.

Remember, it is the law to microchip your cats (In England) and dogs (UK) and to keep their information up-to-date in a DEFRA-compliant database like Animal Tracker.