Microchipping has become one of the most reliable and effective ways to ensure that your pet can be identified if lost or stolen. As a pet owner in India, the peace of mind that comes with knowing your dog or cat has a microchip is invaluable. However, just getting your pet microchipped is not enough. It’s important to ensure that the microchip is working properly, as malfunctioning or improperly registered chips could reduce your chances of being reunited with your pet.

To help you ensure your pet’s microchip is functioning as it should, here’s a step-by-step guide to follow.

1. Have Your Pet’s Microchip Scanned Regularly

One of the simplest and most effective ways to check if your pet's microchip is working is to have it scanned by a professional. Many veterinary clinics and animal shelters in India are equipped with microchip scanners. When your pet goes for routine check-ups, ask the veterinarian to scan the microchip and confirm that it is transmitting the correct information.

If you’ve recently adopted a pet or moved to a new city, getting a scan can help ensure that the chip is still active and working. This is especially important if your pet has had any injuries or surgeries near the area where the microchip was implanted, as the chip could potentially be displaced or malfunction.

2. Verify Your Contact Information Is Up to Date

Microchips themselves don’t track your pet’s location like a GPS device—they simply store a unique ID number linked to a database of your contact details. If you move or change your phone number, you need to make sure that the database has your updated information. If the details linked to the chip aren’t accurate, even a functioning microchip won’t help reunite you with your pet.

In India, most pet microchips are registered with national or international pet recovery databases, such as the Indian National Kennel Club (IKC) or international organizations like PetLink and 24PetWatch. You can visit the respective website or contact the microchip provider to update your details. This ensures that if your pet is found and scanned, they can reach you without delay.

3. Check the Microchip Implant Site

While the microchip itself doesn’t need to be physically monitored, it’s a good idea to check the area where it was implanted. The microchip is usually placed just under the skin between the shoulder blades. In some cases, the microchip could become displaced, especially if your pet has been involved in physical activities or injuries.

Gently feel around the implant site to make sure there are no lumps or signs of discomfort. If your pet seems to be in pain or if the area feels unusual, consult your vet. The microchip should not cause any irritation, and any problems with the implantation site should be addressed by a professional.

4. Ask About Compatibility With Different Scanners

Although microchips work universally, some older microchip models may not be compatible with all scanners, especially if you travel between cities or regions. This can be an issue in India, where different animal shelters and veterinary clinics may use different scanners.

When you have your pet scanned, ask the clinic whether their scanner is compatible with the microchip type used in your pet. This is particularly relevant if you've moved from another country or city and you’re unsure whether your pet’s microchip is readable with the local equipment. If necessary, you may want to get your microchip replaced with a more universally compatible model, although this is rarely necessary as most modern chips are designed to work with most scanners.

5. Keep a Record of the Microchip Number

It’s essential to keep a record of your pet’s microchip number for your own reference. This number is unique to your pet and can be helpful if you need to check if your pet has been registered or if you’re working with shelters or veterinarians in case your pet goes missing. You can find this number on the microchip registration paperwork or the pet’s veterinary records.

In case your pet is lost and found by a shelter or animal control facility, providing this number can expedite the process of reuniting with your pet. It’s also helpful to share the microchip number with family members or pet sitters in case they need to locate the chip during an emergency.

6. Ensure the Microchip Is Registered With a Reputable Database

In India, many microchip providers partner with specific databases. However, it’s essential to make sure that your pet’s microchip is properly registered with a reputable database. Some organizations, such as the Indian National Kennel Club (IKC), keep a registry of pets with microchips, but there are also global databases such as PetLink, HomeAgain, and 24PetWatch that can provide worldwide tracking and recovery services.

Once you’ve had your pet microchipped, always verify the registration with the database and confirm that the details you provided during registration (name, address, contact number) are accurate. A microchip is only as effective as the information it stores, and ensuring that your data is correct will greatly increase the likelihood of being reunited with your pet in case they get lost.

7. Monitor for Signs of Discomfort or Migration

Though rare, there’s a slight chance that the microchip could move or cause discomfort in your pet. It’s important to monitor your pet for any signs of irritation or discomfort around the area where the microchip was implanted. If your pet starts showing signs of licking or scratching around the area excessively, or if there are visible signs of inflammation, contact your veterinarian immediately.

If your pet is not responding well to the microchip, or if there are any issues with the implantation site, your vet may recommend repositioning the chip or other appropriate measures.

8. Consider Additional Identification Options

While microchipping is a powerful tool for pet identification, it’s also wise to use additional identification methods like collars and tags. Collars with your pet’s name, phone number, and address can help in situations where the microchip scanner is not available or in case your pet is found without access to a scanning facility. Combining these methods will increase the likelihood of recovering your pet quickly, whether they’re lost locally or abroad.

Conclusion: The Importance of Microchip Maintenance

While microchipping is a one-time procedure, it’s important to make sure the chip continues to serve its purpose throughout your pet’s life. Ensuring your dog or cat’s microchip is working properly in India involves regular checks, up-to-date registration details, and prompt action if you notice any issues with the chip or implantation site. By staying vigilant and maintaining your pet's microchip, you can significantly enhance their safety and security.

As a responsible pet owner, taking these simple steps will increase the chances of your pet being safely returned to you in the event of a loss, providing both you and your furry companion with much-needed peace of mind.