Has Your Pet Been Microchipped?

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) estimates that approximately 7.6 million companion animals are taken to animal shelters each year. Many of these cats and dogs are animals that were picked up as strays. Only 649,000 of these animals are eventually reunited with their owners. June is National Pet Microchip Month which can prevent your beloved pet from becoming a shelter statistic. Learn more about pet microchips from our Phoenix veterinarian at North Central Animal Hospital! 

What Is a Pet Microchip?

A pet microchip is a tiny computer chip that is inserted under the animal's skin. The microchip, about the size of a grain of rice, contains an identification code specific to that animal. The chip is typically implanted in the scruff of the animal's neck. When a stray animal is taken to an animal shelter or a veterinarian's office, the microchip is scanned to reveal this code. The technician then compares this code to the animal registry to obtain the owner's contact information and alert them of their pet's whereabouts. 

What Is the Cost of Microchipping?

Whether you are pricing cat microchipping in Phoenix or dog microchipping in Phoenix, you will find that the cost of microchipping is similar no matter the breed of animal. Your Phoenix veterinarian can insert a microchip during the course of a regular office visit. Because the microchip is so small, there is no need for anesthesia or any surgical procedures. The entire process takes only a few moments and causes minimal pain to the animal. A microchip generally costs less than $50 not including the office visit and other services performed at that time.

All Pets Should Be Microchipped in Phoenix

At North Central Animal Hospital, we recommend that all cats and dogs be microchipped in addition to a safety collar and tag. Even indoor pets can sometimes wander away from home and become lost. We would rather see a pet microchipped and never need it than have your pet become a grim animal shelter statistic. 

Contact our caring staff at North Central Animal Hospital to make a microchipping appointment for your pet at 602-395-9773!