Every year on August 15th, pet owners across the country are reminded of a small yet significant task: checking their pet’s microchip. Known as National Check the Chip Day, this awareness day serves as a vital reminder to ensure that your pet's microchip information is up to date. But why is this so important? And how can it make a difference in your pet’s safety and well-being? Let's delve into the significance of this day and the steps you can take to protect your furry family member.

The Importance of Microchipping

Microchipping your pet is one of the most effective ways to ensure their safe return if they ever get lost. A microchip is a tiny device, about the size of a grain of rice, that is implanted just under your pet’s skin, typically between the shoulder blades. Each microchip contains a unique identification number that can be scanned by a veterinarian, animal shelter, or pet-related business to retrieve your contact information from a national database.

While collars and tags are essential for quick identification, they can easily fall off or become unreadable over time. A microchip, however, is a permanent form of identification that stays with your pet for life. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), pets with microchips are significantly more likely to be reunited with their owners if lost. For instance, microchipped dogs are over twice as likely to be returned to their owners compared to those without, while microchipped cats are 20 times more likely to be returned home.

Why Checking the Chip Matters

Having your pet microchipped is a crucial first step, but it's equally important to ensure that the information associated with the chip is current. This is where National Check the Chip Day comes into play. Over time, people move, change phone numbers, or even switch email addresses. If your contact information isn’t up to date, the microchip’s effectiveness is compromised.

On National Check the Chip Day, pet owners are encouraged to check the status of their pet’s microchip. This means ensuring that the microchip is still functioning properly and verifying that all contact information is accurate. Many microchip registries offer free or low-cost services to update your pet's information, making it a simple and cost-effective way to enhance your pet’s safety.

How to Check and Update Your Pet’s Microchip Information

If you're unsure of how to check or update your pet’s microchip information, the process is straightforward:

1. Locate the Microchip Number: If you don't have the number on file, your veterinarian can scan your pet to retrieve it.
2. Check the Database: Once you have the microchip number, you can use an online microchip registry, such as the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) Universal Pet Microchip Lookup Tool, to find the database where your pet’s microchip is registered.
3. Update Information: Log in to the registry or contact the company where your pet’s microchip is registered to update your contact details. Don’t forget to check that all fields are filled out, including emergency contacts.
4. Confirm the Update: After making any changes, verify that the updated information is reflected in the registry.

Additional Steps to Protect Your Pet

While microchipping is a critical step, it should be part of a broader strategy to keep your pet safe. Always ensure your pet wears a collar with a legible ID tag that includes your current phone number. Additionally, consider enrolling in a recovery service that will help you locate your pet if they go missing. These services often work in conjunction with microchip registries and can provide an added layer of security.

National Check the Chip Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a reminder of the responsibility we have as pet owners to ensure our pets are safe and protected. By taking the time to verify your pet’s microchip information, you can significantly increase the chances of a happy reunion if your pet ever gets lost. Make it a habit to check the chip annually, and you'll have peace of mind knowing that you've done everything you can to keep your beloved pet safe.