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Veterinary Services

Pet Microchipping

At Conestoga Animal Hospital, in Ephrata, PA, we offer comprehensive pet microchipping services to ensure your pet’s safety and increase the chances of a quick reunion if they go missing.

What is Pet Microchipping?

Pet microchipping involves inserting a small, rice-sized chip under your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. This chip contains a unique identification number linked to your contact information in a pet recovery database.

Key Services and Benefits at Conestoga Animal Hospital

  • Professional Microchipping Services: Our experienced veterinarians perform the microchipping procedure safely and efficiently.
  • Comprehensive Pet Care: We offer a full range of veterinary services to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.
  • Friendly and Knowledgeable Staff: Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate care and answering any questions you may have about the microchipping process.
  • Convenient Location: Located in Ephrata, PA, Conestoga Animal Hospital is easily accessible for pet owners in the area.
a person doing microchip to a cat

Benefits of Pet Microchipping

Permanent Identification

Pet microchips provide a permanent form of identification that cannot be removed or lost. Unlike collars and tags that can fall off or become damaged, a microchip remains with your pet throughout their life.

Quick and Painless Procedure

The microchipping process is quick and causes minimal discomfort. It is similar to a routine vaccination and does not require anesthesia. Most pets experience little to no pain during the procedure and do not notice the chip once it is in place.

Increased Chances of Recovery

Pets with microchips are significantly more likely to be reunited with their owners if they become lost. Statistics show that dogs with microchips are returned to their owners more than 50% of the time, while cats are returned nearly 40% of the time. This is a considerable increase compared to non-microchipped pets.

Use as a Lifetime Dog License

A pet microchip can serve as a lifetime dog license in some areas. This is a convenient option for pet owners, eliminating the need to renew a dog license annually. Your veterinarian can scan your pet’s microchip and assist with the necessary paperwork to register it as a lifetime license.

When to Consider Pet Microchipping

New Pet Adoption

Microchipping is highly recommended when adopting a new pet. Many shelters and breeders include microchipping as part of the adoption process, but if not, scheduling an appointment to have your new pet microchipped is essential.

Moving to a New Area

If you are moving to a new area, microchipping your pet can help ensure they are identified and returned to you if they get lost in unfamiliar surroundings. Remember to update your contact information in the pet recovery database after moving.

Travel Plans

If you plan to travel with your pet, especially internationally, microchipping is often a requirement. Many countries and airlines require pets to be microchipped before travel to ensure proper identification and compliance with regulations.

Outdoor Pets

Pets that spend significant time outdoors are at a higher risk of getting lost. Microchipping provides an added layer of security for outdoor pets, increasing the likelihood of their safe return.

How Pet Microchipping Works

  • The Microchipping Process: The process of microchipping your pet at Conestoga Animal Hospital is simple and straightforward. During your visit, a veterinarian will use a hypodermic needle to implant the microchip just beneath your pet’s skin. The procedure is quick and does not require any special preparation or recovery time.
  • Registration and Database:  After the microchip is implanted, it is crucial to register your pet’s microchip with your contact information in a pet recovery database. Our staff will guide you through the registration process, ensuring that all information is correctly entered and up to date. Keeping your contact information current is essential for the microchip to be effective.
  • Scanning and Identification:  If your lost pet is found, veterinarians, animal shelters, and animal control officers can use a special scanner to detect the microchip. The unique identification number is then used to retrieve your contact information from the database, allowing them to contact you quickly.