Micro Chip Benefits...

Over the years, the micro chip industry and technology has basically revolutionized our world.  Today, micro chip companies offer a great opportunity for pet owners, animal shelters, animal registries, health screening agencies, and breeding programs to quickly and accurately identify pets.  When considering the micro chip's ability to assist the pet world in ways never before possible, it's amazing that it has not yet become the standard of operation for pet identification.

The micro chipping procedure consists of injecting a micro chip through the end of a needle (similar to a vaccination) between the shoulder blades and behind the neck.  The chip then implants itself into the tissue just beneath the skin for future identification.  The service typically costs approximately $25.00.  Each micro chip has a unique number that is initially registered in your veterinarian's name.  After implantation, you can reregister your dog's chip number in your name for a small one time fee (price can vary, Avid charges $15.00).  Should your dog ever become lost and is scanned, the scanner will indicate the manufacture and registered micro chip number and contact information for recovery.

Currently pet micro chip capabilities are hindered due in part to pet agencies and veterinarians disinterest in using the technology to it's fullest potential.  Until this changes, micro chipping our pets will never become a successful aid in returning lost or stolen pets.  In order for the micro chip system to work successfully, animal shelters and veterinarians must first purchase a scanner and then scan & identify each animal that enters into their care. Current statistics show that very few shelters and veterinarians even own a personal scanner, and of those who do, most do not use them.

Personally, the small $25.00 dollar investment still seems worthwhile in comparison to the price and thought of loosing my pet.  I believe that responsible pet owners should encourage their veterinarians and shelters to use and enforce the micro chip identification technology.

For more information on the AVID Micro Chip, call #800-336-AVID.

WARNING:  Micro chip technology was never designed to take the place of the owner's responsibility to protect their dog from harm.  If you choose to have your dog micro chipped, or if your breeder micro chips their puppies, please be aware that your chances of having your dog returned simply because it's micro chipped are less than 1%. 

Take care good of your Newf! :)