What is the best way to ensure my dog's microchip is always up to date?

Ensuring your dog's microchip is always up to date is a critical responsibility for any pet owner. A microchip is a small, electronic chip implanted under your dog's skin, typically between the shoulder blades. It contains a unique identification number that can be scanned by a veterinarian or animal shelter to retrieve your contact information. However, the microchip itself is only as useful as the information linked to it. If the details are outdated, the chip becomes ineffective in reuniting you with your dog if they get lost. Here’s a comprehensive guide to keeping your dog’s microchip information current.

1. Understand How Microchips Work
A microchip is not a GPS device; it does not track your dog’s location. Instead, it stores a unique ID number that is linked to a database containing your contact information. When a lost dog is found, a scanner reads the chip, retrieves the ID number, and contacts the database provider to access your details. This is why keeping the information up to date is so important.

2. Register the Microchip Immediately
If your dog has just been microchipped, the first step is to register the chip with the appropriate database. Many microchip companies have their own databases, but some chips are registered with universal databases. Your veterinarian or the microchip manufacturer should provide you with registration instructions. Make sure to complete this step as soon as possible after implantation.

3. Verify the Registration
After registering, verify that the information is correct. Log into the database or contact the provider to confirm that your name, address, phone number, and email address are accurate. Mistakes can happen during registration, so double-checking is essential.

4. Update Information After Any Changes
Life changes such as moving to a new home, changing your phone number, or updating your email address require immediate updates to your dog’s microchip information. Most databases allow you to log in online or call their customer service to make these changes. Set a reminder to update the information as soon as any changes occur.

5. Use a Universal Database
If your dog’s microchip is registered with a specific company, consider also registering it with a universal database like the American Animal Hospital Association’s (AAHA) Universal Pet Microchip Lookup Tool. This ensures that even if the original database is inaccessible, your dog’s information can still be retrieved.

6. Keep Records Handy
Store your dog’s microchip number and the database contact information in a safe place, such as a digital file or a physical folder. This makes it easier to update the information when needed and provides quick access in case of an emergency.

7. Regularly Check the Database
Even if your contact information hasn’t changed, it’s a good practice to log into the database every six months to ensure everything is correct. Some databases may require periodic updates to keep the information active.

8. Notify Your Veterinarian
Inform your veterinarian whenever you update your dog’s microchip information. They can scan the chip during routine visits to ensure it’s functioning properly and confirm that the database reflects the latest details.

9. Be Aware of Potential Risks
One risk is that the microchip could migrate from its original location, making it harder to detect. Regular scans during vet visits can help identify this issue. Another risk is database fees; some companies charge annual fees to keep the information active. Be sure to understand the terms of your registration.

10. When to Seek Professional Help
If you’re unsure whether your dog’s microchip is registered or up to date, contact your veterinarian or the microchip manufacturer for assistance. They can help you locate the database and verify the information. If your dog’s chip is unreadable or malfunctioning, your vet may recommend re-implanting a new one.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your dog’s microchip remains a reliable tool for identification and reunification. Keeping the information current is a simple yet vital way to protect your pet and give yourself peace of mind.