Microchipping
at Small Friends Veterinary Hospital
The only thing more distressing than your small friend going missing is finding a lost small friend and not knowing whom it belongs to or where it lives. Often these small friends end up at the RSPCA, and if owners cannot be found, they may be put to sleep. A microchip is a tiny device that can give these situations a happy ending.
- What Is A Microchip?
A microchip is a device the size of a grain of rice that contains a unique and permanent 15-digit number, providing lifelong identification for your small friend.
- Where Does The Vet Put The Microchip?
The microchip is placed under the skin, between the shoulder blades, via a simple injection. Once implanted, the microchip remains in place permanently. It cannot be removed or damaged, ensuring your small friend can be reliably identified for life.
- How Does It Work?
The microchip contains an integrated circuit with a unique 15-digit number. After implantation, Small Friends Veterinary Hospital staff immediately register the microchip number on a national database with your contact details. If your small friend is ever found and brought to a veterinary hospital, animal shelter, or pound, staff will scan the microchip. The number is matched to the database and you are contacted immediately, helping your small friend return home quickly.
- What If My Contact Details Change?
It is important to keep the microchip database up to date with accurate contact information. Your details can be updated at any time. When your small friend is microchipped at Small Friends Veterinary Hospital, we register the microchip immediately and issue a certificate of registration. This certificate includes instructions for updating your records.
- Are My Details Safe On The Database?
Yes. Only authorised veterinarians and animal shelters can access the database, and only phone numbers are listed. If more information is required, the database will contact you directly.
- How Do I Know If My Small Friend Has A Microchip?
The only reliable way to check for a microchip is by scanning your small friend’s shoulder region with a microchip scanner. Microchips are extremely difficult to feel by hand. It is also important to ensure the microchip is registered, as unregistered microchips cannot be used to locate owners.
- Can I Check If My Small Friend Has A Microchip And If It Is Registered?
Yes. If you are unsure whether your small friend has a microchip or if it is registered, you can have your small friend scanned at their next appointment with Dr Matt. Alternatively, you can visit Small Friends Veterinary Hospital during opening hours, and our staff can scan your small friend. If a microchip is found but not registered, we can register it on the spot.
Any Questions About Microchipping
Our team can scan, register, or implant a microchip to keep your small friend safe and easily identifiable.