Microchipping your dog or cat is one of the best ways to ensure they are safely reunited with you if they ever get lost. The process of implanting a microchip is straightforward, and the chip itself serves as a permanent and tamper-proof identification tag, offering peace of mind to pet owners across the world. However, like any piece of technology, microchips are not foolproof. While microchipping is extremely reliable, there are rare instances when the chip can malfunction or become lost.

In this blog post, we’ll explore what happens if your pet’s microchip gets lost or malfunctions in India, how you can prevent these issues, and what you should do if such a situation arises.

How Microchips Work

First, let’s briefly review how microchips function in your pet’s identification system. A microchip is a small, rice-sized electronic device that is inserted just under your pet’s skin, typically between the shoulder blades. This chip contains a unique ID number that links to a global pet registration database, where your contact information is stored. If your pet is lost and brought to an animal shelter, a veterinarian, or animal control, they will scan the chip to retrieve your details and contact you.

Although microchips are generally reliable, understanding how they can get lost or malfunction is key to ensuring your pet’s safety.

Can a Microchip Get Lost?

While the microchip itself is a permanent implant, there are a few scenarios where it could seem “lost” or not functioning as expected:

1. Movement Under the Skin

One of the most common concerns with microchips is that the device might migrate or move within the pet’s body over time. This can happen, but it’s a rare occurrence. In some cases, the microchip may travel from the original implantation site, typically between the shoulder blades, to a different part of the body, making it harder to locate during a scan.

In most cases, this is not a serious issue. As long as the chip remains within the pet’s body, it will still function. However, if the chip moves too far from its original placement, it may be missed by scanners, which could cause problems if your pet is found and scanned.

2. Improper Scanning Technique

Sometimes, the issue lies not with the microchip itself, but with how it is scanned. If an animal shelter, veterinary clinic, or rescue organization doesn’t know how to properly scan your pet, or if the scanner is malfunctioning, they might fail to detect the chip. This can give the impression that the microchip is lost when in reality, it just wasn’t detected during the scan.

3. Microchip Failure

Microchips are designed to last a lifetime, but in rare instances, the microchip could malfunction. Although this is extremely uncommon, some chips may fail due to manufacturing defects or wear and tear over time. If a microchip malfunctions or breaks, it will no longer be readable, and your pet’s identification information may be inaccessible.

What Happens If the Microchip Malfunctions?

If your dog or cat’s microchip malfunctions or stops working, it can create difficulties if your pet gets lost. Without an active microchip, there would be no easy way to identify your pet and reunite you with them. Fortunately, here are some steps you can take if you suspect your pet’s microchip is malfunctioning:

1. Get Your Pet Rescanned

If you suspect that your pet’s microchip is not working properly, the first thing you should do is visit a veterinarian or animal shelter for a rescanning. If your pet has moved to a new location or if the scanner wasn’t properly aligned with the chip, the technician might simply need to scan your pet again to locate the microchip.

In some cases, the chip could have moved within the pet’s body, so a rescanning using a different scanner may detect the microchip in another area. It's also a good idea to ask for a manual check to ensure the chip is still there.

2. Contact the Microchip Manufacturer

If your pet’s microchip is still not being detected, it may have malfunctioned. Contact the microchip manufacturer or the clinic that implanted the chip. They will be able to verify the chip’s serial number and determine whether it’s defective or has stopped working. Some microchip providers offer warranties, so they may replace the faulty chip free of charge.

3. Re-implant the Microchip

If the microchip is confirmed to be malfunctioning, the most straightforward solution would be to have a new microchip implanted. Fortunately, this is a simple procedure, similar to the original implantation, and it can usually be done during a routine veterinary visit. Once the new microchip is implanted, be sure to update your contact details in the relevant pet database so that your pet’s information remains current.

Preventing Microchip Issues

While the likelihood of a microchip malfunctioning is low, it’s still important to take a few precautions to minimize the chances of any issues arising. Here are some tips to ensure that your pet’s microchip continues to work smoothly:

1. Choose a Reputable Veterinarian

Ensure that the microchip is implanted by a qualified veterinarian. Choose a clinic that uses high-quality, internationally recognized microchips. Ask the vet about the brand of microchip they use and whether it complies with international standards (ISO 11784/11785). A reputable veterinarian will also know how to implant the microchip correctly to reduce the chances of migration or damage.

2. Keep Your Contact Information Updated

One of the most important things you can do is keep your contact information in the microchip registry up to date. If you change your address, phone number, or email, make sure to notify the microchip registry to ensure that they have the correct details. If your pet is found, the shelter or vet will rely on this information to contact you, and outdated details can prevent them from reaching you.

3. Regular Scanning

Every time you visit your vet, ask them to scan your pet’s microchip. This simple step can ensure that the chip is still functional and that your pet is identifiable in case of an emergency. It’s also an opportunity to ensure that the microchip is still located in the right area of your pet’s body and hasn't migrated.

4. Keep Your Pet’s Collar and ID Tags On

While microchips are incredibly reliable, it's always a good idea to have your pet wear a collar with an ID tag as an additional form of identification. This can help in situations where your pet might not have a chance to be scanned immediately (for example, in a public place or in a non-veterinary setting).

If Your Pet Gets Lost

If your dog or cat gets lost, here are the key steps you should take to maximize your chances of being reunited:

1. Contact Local Shelters and Vets: Report your lost pet to local shelters and veterinary clinics. Provide them with your pet’s microchip ID number and any relevant details.

2. Search Online Databases: Many microchip registration services allow you to search for lost pets in their database. You can also check online platforms such as Facebook groups or pet recovery websites.

3. Notify Animal Control: Animal control officers are often the first responders when a pet is found. Make sure to inform them of your lost pet and provide your pet’s microchip ID details.

Conclusion

While the chances of your dog or cat’s microchip becoming lost or malfunctioning in India are minimal, it’s still important to be prepared in case this rare event occurs. By understanding the potential issues and following preventive measures, you can ensure that your pet’s microchip continues to serve as a reliable form of identification. If you suspect that your pet’s chip is not working, quick action—such as rescanning, contacting the manufacturer, or re-implanting the chip—can help you quickly get your pet back if they ever go missing.

Microchipping is just one of the parts of responsible pet ownership. Always keep your contact information up to date, and consider additional forms of identification, like a collar and ID tag, to further safeguard your pet’s safety.