Permanent Identification

We offer microchip implantation as a way of permanently identifying your pet. Microchips utilize Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology.

A microchip is implanted under your pet's skin, between the shoulder blades. The chip is slightly larger than a grain of rice and contains an unique alpha-numeric code that can be read via scanner. It is NOT a GPS tracking device. It can be implanted during an anesthetic procedure (preferred) or during any routine office visit. It is a safe, effective way of permanently identifying your pet.

Should your pet become lost, a microchip relies on your pet being presented to a veterinarian or shelter for scanning with a microchip reader. Once scanned, the reader will display your pet's unique ID number. That number can be called into the registry service, who will pass along your contact information. Some registries also keep basic medical information on file, such as any medical conditions your pet may have or medications it takes on a regular basis.

A microchip is only as good as the contact information the registry service has; therefore, it is crucial to keep your information (especially your primary and secondary contact numbers) up to date. Many registries allow you to set up an online profile, which can be easily updated as needed.

We carry HomeAgain microchips at Ringgold Animal Hospital. Our microchip fee includes the chip, implantation, registration with HomeAgain, and a year of membership in their proactive recovery services. You are under no obligation to continue membership in the recovery services after the first year; they will still hold your contact information in their registry in case it is needed. 

A tag or collar can be removed, fall off, or simply be unreadable (but microchipping should not take the place of a sturdy collar and readable, up-to-date tags - if your pet is found, no special equipment is needed when your phone number is listed on a tag). ​While microchipping is not a guarantee you will be reunited with a lost pet, many pets DO make it home because of their permanent identification. Many shelters in the United States routinely scan all incoming pets, and most veterinary clinics have microchip readers on-hand to scan pets found by Good Samaritans.