How to Tell if a Dog Is Microchipped: A Comprehensive Guide
Finding a lost dog can be a stressful experience, both for the finder and, of course, for the dog’s owner. One of the most effective ways to reunite a lost dog with its family is through microchipping. A microchip is a small, electronic chip encased in glass that’s implanted under the dog’s skin. It contains a unique identification number that can be used to trace the dog back to its owner through a microchip registry. But how do you tell if a dog is microchipped? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, step-by-step.
## Why Microchipping Matters
Before diving into the how-to, let’s quickly address why microchipping is so important.
* **Permanent Identification:** Unlike collars and tags, which can be lost or removed, a microchip is a permanent form of identification.
* **Increased Chance of Reunification:** Microchipped dogs are significantly more likely to be returned to their owners than those without microchips. Studies have shown that the return-to-owner rate for microchipped dogs is dramatically higher.
* **Proof of Ownership:** In cases of disputes, a microchip can serve as proof of ownership.
* **Travel Requirements:** Many countries require pets to be microchipped for international travel.
* **Peace of Mind:** Knowing your dog has a permanent form of identification provides peace of mind if they ever get lost.
## Understanding Microchips
It’s important to understand a few key aspects of microchips before attempting to scan a dog.
* **What is a Microchip?** As mentioned earlier, a microchip is a small, electronic device about the size of a grain of rice. It’s implanted under the dog’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades.
* **How Does it Work?** The microchip itself doesn’t have a battery and is inactive until scanned by a microchip scanner. The scanner emits a low-frequency radio wave that activates the microchip. The microchip then transmits its unique identification number to the scanner.
* **Microchip Number:** The microchip number is a unique 15-digit (most commonly) identifier. This number is linked to the owner’s contact information in a microchip registry.
* **Microchip Registry:** The microchip registry is a database that stores the microchip number and the owner’s contact information. It’s crucial to keep this information up-to-date. If you move or change your phone number, you must update your information in the registry.
* **Universal Scanners:** Most shelters, veterinary clinics, and animal control agencies use universal scanners that can read all common microchip frequencies.
## Step-by-Step Guide: How to Tell if a Dog is Microchipped
Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to determine if a dog is microchipped.
**Step 1: Visual Inspection**
While you can’t see a microchip with the naked eye, a quick visual inspection is a good starting point.
* **Check for a Collar and Tags:** Look for a collar with identification tags. The tags may have the owner’s phone number, address, or information about the dog being microchipped. Even if there’s a tag, it’s still worth checking for a microchip, as tags can be lost or outdated.
* **Look for a Microchip Tattoo:** Some owners opt to have their dog tattooed with a microchip symbol or the microchip number itself. This tattoo is usually located near the microchip implantation site (between the shoulder blades) or inside the ear. However, microchip tattoos are not very common.
**Step 2: Obtaining a Microchip Scanner**
This is the most crucial step. You’ll need a microchip scanner to detect the presence of a microchip.
* **Where to Find a Scanner:**
* **Veterinary Clinics:** Most veterinary clinics have microchip scanners and are happy to scan a found dog for free or a small fee. This is often the easiest and quickest option.
* **Animal Shelters and Rescues:** Animal shelters and rescue organizations also have microchip scanners and routinely scan incoming animals.
* **Animal Control Agencies:** Your local animal control agency will have a scanner and can assist you.
* **Police Departments:** Some police departments, particularly those in rural areas, may have microchip scanners.
* **Pet Stores:** While less common, some larger pet stores may have scanners available for use.
* **Borrowing/Renting:** In some cases, you may be able to borrow or rent a scanner from a local animal welfare organization or a veterinary clinic.
* **Types of Scanners:** Universal scanners are preferred as they can read different microchip frequencies. Older scanners may only read specific frequencies, so ensure the scanner you are using is a universal scanner.
**Step 3: Scanning the Dog for a Microchip**
This step involves using the microchip scanner to scan the dog’s body.
* **Preparation:**
* **Dog’s Comfort:** Ensure the dog is calm and comfortable. Approach the dog slowly and gently. If the dog is scared or aggressive, it’s best to take it to a professional (veterinarian, shelter) for scanning.
* **Scanner Functionality:** Make sure the microchip scanner is turned on and the battery is charged. Some scanners have a test function to ensure they are working correctly.
* **Quiet Environment:** Minimize distractions by scanning in a quiet environment.
* **Scanning Procedure:**
* **Start at the Shoulder Blades:** The microchip is typically implanted between the shoulder blades, so begin scanning in that area. Hold the scanner a few inches away from the dog’s skin.
* **Slow and Methodical Scanning:** Move the scanner slowly and methodically in a zig-zag or overlapping pattern. Cover the entire area between the shoulder blades, extending slightly down the back and to the sides.
* **Multiple Passes:** Make multiple passes over the area. Microchips can sometimes migrate from their original implantation site, so it’s essential to scan a larger area.
* **Scanning Other Areas:** If you don’t find a microchip between the shoulder blades, scan other areas, including along the neck, down the sides of the body, and even the legs (although this is less common).
* **Pay Attention to the Scanner:** Watch the scanner’s display screen. If a microchip is present, the scanner will display the microchip number.
* **What if the Scanner Doesn’t Detect a Microchip?**
* **Check the Scanner:** Double-check that the scanner is working correctly and that the battery is charged.
* **Try a Different Scanner:** If possible, try using a different scanner. It’s possible the first scanner is malfunctioning or unable to read the specific microchip frequency.
* **Consider Other Implantation Sites:** Although rare, microchips can sometimes be implanted in unusual locations. Continue to scan the entire body thoroughly.
* **No Microchip:** If you’ve tried multiple scanners and scanned the entire body thoroughly, it’s likely the dog doesn’t have a microchip. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian to confirm.
**Step 4: Retrieving Owner Information Using the Microchip Number**
Once you’ve obtained the microchip number, you’ll need to use it to find the owner’s contact information.
* **Locate the Appropriate Registry:** The microchip number needs to be entered into the correct registry to retrieve the owner’s information. There are several microchip registries, and not all microchips are registered with the same registry. The *AAHA Universal Pet Microchip Lookup Tool* (available online) is an excellent resource for finding the correct registry. Enter the microchip number into the tool, and it will identify the registry associated with that number.
* **Contact the Registry:** Once you’ve identified the correct registry, contact them using the contact information provided on their website. You may need to provide the microchip number and some basic information about yourself (name, phone number) to access the owner’s contact information.
* **Privacy Considerations:** Microchip registries are bound by privacy regulations. They may not be able to release the owner’s contact information directly to you. In some cases, they may contact the owner on your behalf and relay your contact information.
* **Alternative: Contact a Veterinarian or Shelter:** If you’re having trouble locating the correct registry or contacting them, a veterinarian or animal shelter can often assist you in retrieving the owner’s information. They have experience working with microchip registries and may have access to more comprehensive databases.
**Step 5: Contacting the Owner**
Once you have the owner’s contact information, reach out to them as soon as possible.
* **Be Prepared to Verify Ownership:** When you contact the owner, be prepared to verify that they are indeed the owner of the dog. Ask them to describe the dog’s breed, age, markings, or any unique characteristics. You can also ask them for veterinary records or photos of the dog.
* **Arrange a Meeting:** Arrange a safe and convenient meeting place to return the dog to its owner. A public place, such as a park or veterinary clinic, is often a good choice.
* **Celebrate the Reunion:** Reuniting a lost dog with its owner is a heartwarming experience. Celebrate the successful reunion!
## Common Challenges and Troubleshooting
* **Microchip Migration:** Microchips can sometimes migrate from their original implantation site. If you’re having trouble finding the microchip, scan a larger area of the dog’s body.
* **Scanner Malfunction:** Ensure the microchip scanner is working correctly and that the battery is charged. Try using a different scanner if possible.
* **Outdated Contact Information:** The owner’s contact information in the microchip registry may be outdated. If you’re unable to reach the owner, contact the microchip registry and ask them to try contacting the owner through alternative means.
* **Unregistered Microchip:** In some cases, the microchip may not be registered with a registry. This can happen if the owner purchased the microchip but never registered it. If you suspect the microchip is unregistered, contact a veterinarian or animal shelter for assistance.
* **International Microchips:** If you find a dog with an international microchip, you may need to contact the microchip manufacturer or an international microchip registry for assistance.
## Preventing Your Dog From Getting Lost: Responsible Pet Ownership
While knowing how to check for a microchip is helpful, preventing your dog from getting lost in the first place is even more important. Here are some tips for responsible pet ownership:
* **Keep Your Dog on a Leash:** Always keep your dog on a leash when walking in public areas. This will prevent them from running off and getting lost.
* **Secure Your Yard:** Ensure your yard is securely fenced to prevent your dog from escaping.
* **Use a Collar with Identification Tags:** Make sure your dog wears a collar with identification tags that include your phone number and address.
* **Microchip Your Dog:** Have your dog microchipped by a veterinarian.
* **Register Your Microchip:** Register your dog’s microchip with a reputable microchip registry and keep your contact information up-to-date.
* **Consider GPS Tracking:** Consider using a GPS tracking device for your dog, especially if they are prone to escaping.
* **Regular Vet Checks:** Regular veterinary checkups can ensure your dog is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations, making them less likely to roam.
## Conclusion
Knowing how to tell if a dog is microchipped is a valuable skill that can help reunite lost dogs with their families. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can quickly and effectively determine if a dog has a microchip and take the necessary steps to find its owner. Remember, microchipping is a vital tool for responsible pet ownership, providing a permanent form of identification that can make all the difference in bringing a lost dog home.