Pukekohe Waiuku Veterinary Centre

We Treat Your Pet As We Would Our Own

What is microchipping?

 

Microchipping your pet involves inserting a small electronic chip about the size of a grain of rice (see picture to the left) under the skin of your pet, usually at the back of the neck. 

The microchip provides us with a failsafe way to identify an animal, and enables us to reunite lost pets with their owners.

 

 

How does it work?

 

The microchip emits no radiation or electronic signal, instead it works in a

similar way to a barcode.  When a microchip scanner (see picture below)

is passed over the area where the microchip is located it detects a unique 10-15 digit number that is encoded within the microchip.

This number is then entered in a national database and linked with all the owners information and contact details. 

If an animal is found, their microchip details are searched for on the database, enabling the owner to be contacted and reassured that their pet is safe.

 

 

Do I have to get my dog microchipped?

 

Yes, in July 2006 a new law came into effect requiring all newly registered dogs to be microchipped.

This means that if your dog has not previously been registered or you are about to register your new puppy for the first time you are legally required to microchip him or her.  However, even if you are not legally required to, we do recommend that you microchip them anyway, collars and nametags can get lost—microchips can’t!

 

 

Can I get my other pets microchipped?

 

You most definitely can, many people are now starting to microchip cats and sometimes even birds.  This enable them to be reunited with their owners quickly and easily if they are found wandering or far from home. 

 

 

Can I track my pet using its microchip?

 

No, a microchip is not a GPS unit and unfortunately it can not be tracked or used to find the location of your pet.