Pet microchips are a common way to ensure the safety and return of lost pets. Many pet owners consider microchipping an essential part of responsible pet ownership. However, a frequent question arises: Can Pet Microchips Be Tracked? Understanding the technology behind these tiny devices is crucial to dispelling myths and appreciating their true purpose. This article will delve into the workings of pet microchips, clarify their capabilities, and explain why, despite common misconceptions, they are not tracking devices.
What is a Pet Microchip?
A pet microchip is a small, passive transponder, about the size of a grain of rice, encased in biocompatible glass. It’s a simple yet ingenious piece of technology designed for one primary function: identification. Unlike what many might assume, a microchip doesn’t contain a battery and doesn’t actively transmit any signals on its own. Instead, it operates using Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) technology.
When a microchip scanner is passed over the area where the microchip is implanted (typically between the shoulder blades), it emits radio waves. These waves activate the microchip, which then transmits a unique identification number back to the scanner. This number is displayed on the scanner’s screen, providing a crucial link to the pet’s owner. Think of it as a digital license plate permanently embedded under your pet’s skin, designed to be read when needed.
How are Microchips Implanted?
The implantation process is quick, relatively painless, and minimally invasive. A microchip is inserted under the skin using a hypodermic needle, much like a routine vaccination. While the needle is slightly larger than those used for typical injections, most pets experience only momentary discomfort, comparable to a standard shot. There’s no need for surgery or general anesthesia. In fact, microchipping is often performed during a regular veterinary check-up. If your pet is already scheduled for anesthesia for a procedure like spaying or neutering, microchip implantation can conveniently be done while they are already under anesthesia.
What Information Does a Microchip Contain?
This is where a key misunderstanding often occurs. Pet microchips, in their current widely used form, are not GPS tracking devices. They do not contain the technology to broadcast your pet’s location. The sole piece of information stored within the microchip itself is a unique identification number.
This number acts as a key to unlock information stored in an external database. When you register your pet’s microchip, you provide your contact information (phone number, address, email) to the microchip manufacturer’s registry. This information is linked to your pet’s unique microchip ID. Therefore, when a lost pet is found and scanned, the displayed number allows shelters or veterinary clinics to contact the microchip registry and retrieve your contact details, facilitating a reunion.
While the microchip itself doesn’t hold medical records, some registration databases offer the option to store your pet’s medical information for quick access in emergencies. It’s also worth noting that specialized microchips, used in research or for livestock and horses, can transmit additional data like body temperature, but these are not standard for companion animals.
Privacy Concerns and Microchips
Privacy is a valid concern in our digitally connected world. However, when it comes to pet microchips, privacy risks are minimal. The information you provide during microchip registration is primarily used for pet recovery purposes. Reputable microchip registries have privacy safeguards in place to protect your personal data. Generally, only authorized personnel at animal shelters and veterinary clinics, who have scanned your pet’s microchip, can access your contact information through the registry. Random individuals cannot simply look up pet owner details using a microchip number. You typically have control over whether you receive marketing communications from the microchip manufacturer, allowing you to opt out if desired.
The crucial point regarding privacy is that the system is designed to connect lost pets with their owners, and your information is used solely for this purpose when your pet is found and scanned.
Microchip Frequency and ISO Standards
Microchip technology operates on radio frequencies. In the United States, different frequencies have been used, including 125 kHz, 128 kHz, and 134.2 kHz. The frequency refers to the radio wave emitted by the scanner to activate and read the microchip.
To promote global consistency in pet identification, the International Standards Organization (ISO) has established a global standard for microchips, recommending the 134.2 kHz frequency. ISO-compliant microchips ensure better readability across international borders. For instance, if you travel with your pet to Europe, where ISO scanners are prevalent, an ISO-standard microchip increases the likelihood of your pet’s chip being detected and read if they get lost.
Universal scanners, also known as forward- and backward-reading scanners, are designed to read all common microchip frequencies (including ISO and non-ISO). These scanners are increasingly common in shelters and veterinary clinics as they eliminate the need for multiple scanners and improve the chances of detecting any implanted microchip, regardless of its frequency.
How Microchips Reunite Lost Pets
The process of reuniting lost pets with their owners through microchips is straightforward and effective, provided the microchip is registered with accurate information. When a lost animal is brought to a shelter or veterinary clinic, scanning for a microchip is a standard first step. If a microchip is detected, the unique identification number is obtained. Shelter or clinic staff then use this number to contact the relevant microchip registry. With accurate registration details, the registry provides the owner’s contact information, allowing for a swift and happy reunion.
Studies have shown the significant impact of microchipping on pet recovery rates. Research on stray animals in shelters revealed that microchipped dogs were returned to their owners more than twice as often as non-microchipped dogs. For cats, the difference in return rates was even more pronounced.
However, the effectiveness of microchipping hinges on registration and up-to-date contact information. The most common reason for microchipped pets not being returned to their owners is incorrect or outdated contact information in the registry database. Therefore, registering your pet’s microchip and diligently updating your contact details whenever changes occur are absolutely critical steps in ensuring microchip effectiveness.
Microchips vs. Collars and Tags
While microchips are invaluable for permanent and tamper-proof identification, they are not meant to replace traditional collars and ID tags. Collars with up-to-date tags offer immediate and easily accessible identification. If a pet is wearing a collar with tags when lost, anyone finding the pet can quickly contact the owner directly, without needing a scanner.
However, collars and tags can be lost, damaged, or removed. In such cases, a microchip serves as a reliable backup. Furthermore, rabies tags, which are legally required in many areas, should always be worn on a collar to visibly demonstrate that a pet is vaccinated against rabies. While rabies tag numbers can also be used to trace owners, accessing this information outside of regular business hours can be challenging. Microchip registries, in contrast, are accessible 24/7, offering a constant resource for pet identification.
Therefore, microchips and collars with tags are complementary tools for pet safety, providing multiple layers of protection for ensuring your pet’s safe return if they ever become lost.
Microchipping Adopted Pets
If you’ve recently adopted a pet, especially from a shelter, it’s important to determine if they are already microchipped. Reputable shelters often microchip animals before adoption. Shelter staff should be able to tell you if your new pet is microchipped and provide you with the microchip number. If your adopted pet is microchipped, ensure you register the microchip in your name and update the contact information associated with it.
If you are unsure, most veterinary clinics have microchip scanners and can quickly check your new pet for a microchip during their first check-up. Microchips are also visible on X-rays, providing another method of detection if needed.
Benefits of Microchipping
The primary and most compelling benefit of microchipping is the significantly increased chance of reuniting with your pet if they are lost or stolen. Microchips provide permanent identification that cannot be easily removed or altered. They are a simple, affordable, and effective way to enhance your pet’s safety and your peace of mind.
Where to Get a Pet Microchipped
Microchipping is readily available through your veterinarian. Most veterinary clinics keep microchips in stock and can implant them during a routine appointment. Keep an eye out for local shelters or organizations that may also host microchipping events, often offering microchipping services at reduced costs. While DIY microchip kits may be available, it is strongly discouraged to implant a microchip yourself. Proper implantation technique is crucial for the microchip to function correctly and to avoid potential complications. Veterinarians are trained to implant microchips safely and effectively, ensuring the best outcome for your pet.
Post-Implantation Care and Maintenance
Post-implantation care is generally minimal. Follow your veterinarian’s specific instructions, but typically, monitoring the implantation site for any signs of swelling, drainage, or redness is advised. Contact your vet if you observe any abnormalities.
Maintaining your pet’s microchip involves three simple steps:
- Ensure Registration: Immediately register the microchip using the manufacturer’s registry and the provided paperwork.
- Annual Scan Check: Ask your veterinarian to scan your pet’s microchip during their annual check-up to confirm it is still functioning and detectable.
- Keep Information Updated: Critically, update your registration information whenever your contact details change, especially your phone number, address, or email.
August 15th is designated as “Check the Chip Day,” serving as an annual reminder to review and update your pet’s microchip registration information.
Addressing Concerns: Microchip Failures and Cancer
While generally safe and reliable, microchip systems are not entirely foolproof. Microchip failures, although rare, can occur. Scanners can also malfunction, though this is uncommon. Human error, such as improper scanning technique, can sometimes lead to a microchip being missed. Animal-related factors, like thick matted fur, excessive fat tissue at the implantation site, or metal collars, can also interfere with scanning.
Regarding health concerns, there have been unfounded claims linking microchips to cancer in pets. While some studies in laboratory rodents have reported tumors associated with implanted microchips, these were primarily in cancer-prone research animals. In companion animals, documented cases of microchip-associated tumors are extremely rare, and a causal link has not been established. Leading veterinary organizations and extensive research confirm that the risk of cancer from pet microchips is exceptionally low and is significantly outweighed by the benefits of pet identification and recovery. Therefore, microchip removal due to cancer concerns is not recommended and is generally considered riskier than leaving the microchip in place.
Multiple Microchips and ISO Compliance
It’s possible for a pet to unintentionally receive multiple microchips, especially if their history is unknown, such as with rescue animals. Having multiple microchips does not cause interference. Universal scanners will typically detect all microchips present. If your pet has multiple microchips, ensure you register and keep the information updated for each microchip number to maximize the chances of being contacted regardless of which chip is scanned.
If you are relocating internationally to a country requiring ISO-compliant microchips and your pet has a non-ISO chip, you will need to have an ISO-standard microchip implanted. Both chips will function independently and do not need to be removed. If your pet already has an ISO chip, it will generally meet international travel requirements, but always verify the specific import regulations of your destination country regarding microchipping, vaccinations, and other health requirements.
Why No Central Database or Universal Standards?
In the United States, there is no federally mandated central database for pet microchip registration. Each microchip manufacturer maintains its own registry. This is partly due to the history of microchip technology development and market competition. While a centralized system might seem ideal, the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) provides a valuable universal microchip lookup tool. This online tool allows anyone to enter a microchip number and identify the manufacturer and associated registry, streamlining the process of owner identification. However, it’s crucial to understand that this lookup tool does not provide owner information directly; it directs users to the correct manufacturer’s registry to pursue owner contact.
While universal scanners and ISO-compliant microchips are increasingly prevalent and beneficial, the lack of a single, universally mandated system reflects the complexities of market dynamics and regulatory landscapes within the pet microchip industry. Registering your pet’s microchip directly with the manufacturer’s database remains the most critical step in ensuring effective pet recovery.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the idea of tracking a pet with a microchip might sound appealing, pet microchips as currently used are not tracking devices. Their primary function is identification, providing a permanent and reliable link between a lost pet and their owner. They work as passive transponders, activated by scanners to reveal a unique ID number that, when properly registered, unlocks owner contact information within a manufacturer’s database.
Microchipping is an essential tool for responsible pet ownership, significantly increasing the chances of reuniting with a lost pet. To maximize its effectiveness, remember to register your pet’s microchip immediately after implantation and, crucially, keep your contact information updated. While microchips are not tracking devices, their role in pet safety and recovery is undeniable, making them a vital component of pet protection alongside traditional collars and tags.
