Animals can be separated from their owners for many reasons. They can escape from the yard, be startled by thunder or fireworks, or follow an intriguing scent… just to name a few. Nearly every day our shelter either receives lost dogs/cats or visits from frantic owners searching for their pets. Unfortunately, many of these pets are roaming the streets without proper identification and most will never return home again. Especially in Hawaii, where many family pets enjoy living outdoors, a properly fitting collar, updated ID tag, and updated microchip are essential to pet ownership.
What is a microchip?A microchip is about the size of a grain of rice. It is a tiny computer chip surrounded in a special kind of glass. The microchip contains a personal identification number unique to your pet. This number is linked to a national database which contains your contact information.
The microchip is embedded under the neck skin of your pet in a method very similar to receiving a shot. There is no anesthesia or special procedure necessary. It is over in a matter of seconds. Once the microchip is implanted it will scan immediately.
How does a microchip work?
When your pet is lost, if he is taken to an animal shelter or vet's office with a microchip wand the procedure is very simple. The wand emits a low radio frequency and is waved over the neck/back of the animal. If there is a microchip embedded it will send a signal to the wand with the personal ID number of the pet. This number is then matched in the national database with your name and contact information.
Why does my pet need a microchip if he already has a collar and ID tag?
Despite your best intentions, collars can break and ID tags can fall off or become illegible. Sadly, collars are also very easy to remove if someone else should decide to keep your lost pet for themselves. Microchipping your pet provides a safe and secure way to store your contact information, and it can’t be removed.
Where do you get a microchip?
The Oahu SPCA recognizes the importance of reuniting lost pets with their owners. This is why we are proud to offer microchip services for just $24.95 during normal shelter hours. Compared to what you may pay at a vet's office, this price is a great deal! We are open 10am to 3pm every Tuesday through Sunday.
Of course, in the end the best way to keep your pet safe is to stay vigilant and keep your home/yard secure. But... for just $24.95 you can't beat the extra peace of mind a microchip can provide to your family pets for the rest of their lives. It is so quick and easy and could just be the thing that saves your pet's life!
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