Every year, thousands of pets become lost or separated from their families. While collars and tags are helpful, they can be lost, damaged, or removed. Microchipping offers a safe, reliable, and permanent way to ensure your pet can be identified and returned home if they ever go missing. At Ranch Heights Veterinary, we believe microchipping is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your furry family members.
Why Microchipping Matters
Unlike a collar, a microchip is a tiny device—about the size of a grain of rice—that is implanted just beneath your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. Each microchip contains a unique identification number that is registered to your contact information in a secure database. If your pet is found and scanned at a veterinary clinic, shelter, or animal control, you can be contacted immediately.
This quick and simple procedure could be the difference between being reunited with your pet or losing them forever.
Q&A: Microchipping Pets
Q: Does microchipping hurt my pet?
A: The procedure is very similar to receiving a vaccination. Most pets tolerate it well, and no anesthesia is required.
Q: Is a microchip the same as a GPS tracker?
A: No. Microchips do not track your pet’s location. Instead, they provide a permanent form of identification that links back to your contact details.
Q: What happens if I move or change my phone number?
A: It is very important to keep your contact information up to date in the microchip registry. Updating your details is simple and ensures you can always be reached if your pet is found.
Q: Can the microchip stop working or move inside my pet’s body?
A: Modern microchips are designed to last for your pet’s lifetime. While they may shift slightly under the skin, they remain functional and scannable.
Q: At what age should my pet be microchipped?
A: Puppies and kittens can be microchipped as early as a few weeks old, but pets of any age can safely receive a microchip.
Q: What if my pet already wears a collar and tag?
A: Tags and collars are important, but they can break, wear out, or be removed. A microchip provides a permanent backup form of identification.
Protect Your Pet Today
Microchipping is a small step that provides lifelong peace of mind. If your pet ever gets lost, you’ll have the best chance of being reunited quickly and safely.
At Ranch Heights Veterinary, we offer safe and affordable microchipping services for dogs and cats. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and give your pet the gift of security.
📍 Ranch Heights Veterinary
2651 Irvine Avenue STE 128
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
📞 Phone: (949) 630-3517