6270 Washington Blvd, Elkridge, Maryland, 21075

Microchipping

It only takes a moment for your pet to bolt out the door or break away from his leash, and many lost pets never find their way home because they have no form of identification when they get away. Tags on collars are great, but pets often break or lose their collars in their attempt at freedom. Microchipping is a way to ensure your pet can find his way home, with permanent identification always in place.  

What Is a Microchip?

Dog getting a microchip

A microchip is a tiny electronic device that is placed just below the skin, between your pet’s shoulders. It’s only about the size of a grain of rice, but it stores valuable information, like your contact information, which is delivered via radiowaves. When your pet is lost and someone finds him, they will bring him to an animal hospital or county facility where they can scan for the chip to access your contact information, so your pet finds their way home to you.

Elkridge Animal Hospital only uses HomeAgain microchips, the number one choice of microchips by most veterinarians.  You can read more about facts on microchips on HomeAgain’s website.

Is Microchipping Safe?

Microchips do not need a power source and contain no moving parts, so they are safe to stay in your pet for a lifetime. They are made from material that is compatible with an animal’s body, so any discomfort or rejection is very rare. Over time, the microchip will become encased in the tissue, which means it will not move around the body.

What to Expect at a Microchipping Appointment

If you wish to have your pet microchipped, simply ask about it at your next appointment. The procedure is simple. Your pet’s vet will inject the microchip using a sterile syringe into your pet’s skin between the shoulder blades. The procedure is quick and causes minimal discomfort, just like a vaccination. Many people opt to have microchips inserted while their pets are under anesthesia for routine spays, neuters, or dental cleanings.

Once your pet is microchipped, you will receive paperwork to fill out that requests for your most reliable contact information.  We register the microchip for you, for the life of your pet and the cost is included! Without your pet being registered, the microchip is worthless. You will need to keep your pet’s microchip information handy so you can change your contact information if you move or get a new phone number. Up-to-date information is critical to making sure you protect your pet with your microchip.

What Happens if Your Pet Gets Lost?

If your pet is lost, the people who find him can take him to a local vet or shelter to be scanned. If your microchip information is up to date, the scanner will provide your contact information and the vet or shelter staff can give you a call. Only the staff of the facility will have access to your information.

Microchipping your pet is a simple solution to add a layer of protection in case your pet is lost. Schedule your appointment today to have your pet microchipped, and give yourself the peace of mind that comes from knowing you will always have a way to be reunited.

Regular Hours of Operation

Monday

8:00 am - 7:00 pm

Tuesday

8:00 am - 7:00 pm

Wednesday

8:00 am - 7:00 pm

Thursday

8:00 am - 7:00 pm

Friday

8:00 am - 7:00 pm

Saturday

8:00 am - 3:00 pm

Sunday

Closed

Monday
8:00 am - 7:00 pm
Tuesday
8:00 am - 7:00 pm
Wednesday
8:00 am - 7:00 pm
Thursday
8:00 am - 7:00 pm
Friday
8:00 am - 7:00 pm
Saturday
8:00 am - 3:00 pm
Sunday
Closed

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