National Check the Chip Day – What You Need to Do!

Is your dog microchipped–and is that information up to date? As a reminder to get your canine or cat companion microchipped and to keep the contact data up to date, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) have teamed up to create National Check the Chip Day.

When is National Check the Chip Day?

National Check the Chip Day is observed every August 15.

Why is it important to check a dog’s microchip?

Statistics state that approximately 10 million dogs and cats find themselves lost each year, and although many companion animals are now happily reunited with those they love thanks to microchipping, the implant can only be of help if the information it contains is current.

Pet parents are encouraged to take a moment to either ensure that their pet’s microchip information is correct, or to schedule an appointment to have their barking buddy or purring pal microchipped.

How does a microchip work?

Embedded beneath the skin with the aid of a hypodermic needle, no surgery or anesthesia is required when a microchip is implanted.

It is a simple procedure which can be accomplished during a routine visit to the veterinarian.

Once a pet has been microchipped, the dog or cat’s guardian’s contact information is registered to the microchip’s serial number. Veterinary staff and shelter staff can access the databases to locate the pet’s family when their four-pawed pal is found.

Microchips can help reunite you with your dog in case he is lost or stolen.

“It really can be a matter of life or death if your pet gets lost and a shelter or animal control agency has no way to reach you,” the president of AVMA, Dr. Joseph Kinnarney, states. “It only takes the same amount of time as updating a password, but it could save your pet’s life.”

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