Microchipping: Common Myths Debunked!

Microchips are small computer chips the size of a grain of rice that are implanted under your pet’s skin just like a routine injection. Unlike collars and ID tags, they can never break or fall-off. They work by receiving a radio signal from a scanner and transmitting the encoded chip identification number back to the scanner. With the chip identification number in hand, your contact information is only a phone call away.

Microchips are an inexpensive way to ensure your pet returns home if they ever find themselves in a shelter or picked up as a stray.

Join us in debunking some common myths with quality facts!!

Myth #1. My pet is an indoor pet

FACT: Although your pet lives primarily indoors, there is still the chance they could escape out the front door, slip their leash during a walk, escape if you are in a car accident or during a natural disaster. The truth is that, although our pets are indoors most of their lives, they do have to go outside at some point either to potty, a trip to the vet, traveling, etc. A microchip provides peace of mind that, if your pet is lost, they have a much higher chance of returning home to you.

Myth #2. It hurts!

Fact: A microchip is smaller than a grain of rice and is implanted between the shoulder blades through a quick injection, just like their annual vaccines. There may be a small amount of discomfort at the time of the injection, but there are typically no lasting side effects.

Myth #3: Someone could access my information or track my movements

Fact: This is just untrue. Microchips are not GPS tracking devices and all information is stored in a secure database. When registering your pet’s microchip, you will only be asked to provide your name, phone number, address, and email. You will never be asked to provide personal information such as your birthdate, social security number, etc.

Myth #4: It doesn’t really improve the chances of a lost pet returning home.

Fact: A microchipped pet is 2.5 times more likely to be returned to their owners than those who are not microchipped. Studies have shown that 73% of stray dogs & cats who were microchipped were returned to their owners versus only 27% of pets that were not microchipped.

Having your pet microchipped is the best way to protect them should they ever become lost. You can have your pets microchipped at any veterinary clinic, including Pawmetto Lifeline’s Wellness Clinic, Care-a-Van, or On-Site Vaccine Clinic for only $25 with FREE registration. Visit to learn more now!