Many pet owners are unaware that thousands of pets go missing every year. With that information in mind, it's imperative to take action to prevent your pet from becoming one of those statistics. One way to do this is to have your pet microchipped. At Animal Health Services in Columbus, MS, we provide a wide range of veterinary services for cats and dogs, including microchipping. We highly encourage all pet owners to consider this easy procedure for their pets.

What Is Microchipping?

Microchipping your pet is a permanent way to identify your pet. The actual microchip itself is only about the size of a small grain of rice. Our veterinarian will insert the chip just beneath your pet's skin, usually between the shoulder blades.

How Is A Microchip Inserted?

Microchips get inserted with a needle and are no more painful for your pet than a standard vaccination. The whole process takes only a few moments and can be done during your pet's regular veterinary appointment. Once your pet has the microchip inserted, it can be identified with a special scanner that reads the microchip's unique identification number. Nearly all humane centers and veterinarians have access to these scanners.

Benefits of Microchipping

There are several advantages to microchipping your pet. The most important one is that if your pet ever becomes lost, it can be quickly and easily identified and returned to you. According to the American Humane Association, more than 10 million pets go astray every year in the United States. The chances of your pet getting reunited are much better with a microchip inserted.

Another benefit of microchipping is that you can keep your pet's information up to date. If you move or change contact information, you can update that data on your pet's microchip as well. Microchips are more effective. One of the biggest problems with identification collars is the likelihood of them falling off or fading over time. You will not have to worry about that happening if your pet is microchipped.

Finally, it's a cost-effective way to provide pet owners with peace of mind. Of course, you will never be able to know if or when your pet gets separated from you. However, you'll be more prepared if it does.

Make an Appointment with Animal Health Services in Columbus, MS

If you're ready to microchip your pet or have any questions about the process, we invite you to make an appointment with our team at Animal Health Services. Call our team today at (662) 328-2821 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.