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Each day, pets go missing all over the United States. Most of these pets will end up in animal shelters, where it can be very difficult for pet owners to locate them. That’s why many people opt for pet microchipping, which can be highly useful for tracking down lost pets. The veterinarians at Troy & Wentzville Veterinary Clinic offer the following information to help Missouri pet owners decide whether this is the best option for their beloved dogs or cats.

What You Should Know About Pet Microchipping

How Does It Work?

Pet microchipping involves injecting a tiny microchip (about the size of a grain of rice) into your pet’s skin. While it’s commonly believed that a microchip can help track your pet, in fact, it only contains a radio transmitter and antenna. The microchip also contains a 10-digit code, which is used to identify a pet should it go missing. The microchip is usually injected between the shoulder blades, although it can migrate to other areas of the body over time (which is why it’s important for pet owners to be aware of its original positioning in the event it migrates).

What Are the Risks?

pet microchippingMicrochipping can entail a minimal level of pain for some pets since it involves injecting the chip with a fairly large needle. The injection site can also become irritated, which can develop into an infection or abscess if left untreated. Hair loss and swelling can also occur, so be sure to discuss the potential for these side effects with your vet. 

Is My Pet a Good Candidate?

While the risks tend to be fairly minimal for microchipping procedures, it’s still important to weigh them against the odds of your pet becoming lost. For instance, a pet that spends little to no times outdoors is less likely to run away, so microchipping might not be necessary. Other pets have a greater tendency to break free from the home, which could lead to them being lost or even stolen. If this is the case for your pet, having a microchip implanted is probably worth the risk of side effects.

Whether you have questions about pet microchipping or are in need of a pet vaccination to ensure your furry friend remains happy and healthy, Troy & Wentzville Veterinary Clinic will assist you in finding safe and effective treatments for a range of issues. Schedule your appointment an appointment in Troy, MO, by calling (636) 528-4534. If you’d like more information on the complete listing of veterinary services, visit them online.

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