How to Update Your Pet’s Microchip Information: A Guide for Pet Owners

Introduction

As a responsible pet owner, you know that one of the most important things you can do for your furry friend is to microchip them. Microchipping is a simple and effective way to ensure that your pet can be identified if they ever get lost or separated from you. However, just getting your pet microchipped isn’t enough. You need to make sure that the information associated with your pet’s microchip is accurate and up-to-date. In this article, we’ll look at why it’s so crucial to keep your pet’s microchip information current and provide a step-by-step guide on how to update it.

Why is it Important to Update Your Pet’s Microchip Information?

Your pet’s microchip contains a unique identification number that is linked to your contact information. In the event that your pet gets lost or goes missing, a microchip scanner can be used to read the information on the chip and get in touch with you. However, if the contact information associated with the microchip is incorrect or outdated, it won’t be of much help in locating your furry friend.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), microchips are only effective if the information associated with them is accurate and up-to-date. They recommend that pet owners should check their pet’s microchip information at least once a year to ensure that it’s still accurate. If you move, change your phone number, or get a new email address, you need to update the information associated with your pet’s microchip.

How to Update Your Pet’s Microchip Information

Updating your pet’s microchip information is a relatively straightforward process. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Contact your pet’s microchip manufacturer: The first thing you need to do is contact the manufacturer of your pet’s microchip. They will be able to provide you with instructions on how to update the information associated with the chip.

2. Provide your pet’s microchip number: You’ll need to provide the manufacturer with your pet’s microchip number. This is usually a 9, 10, or 15-digit number that is encoded on the chip.

3. Provide updated contact information: Once you’ve confirmed your pet’s microchip number, you’ll need to provide the manufacturer with your updated contact information. This may include your current address, phone number, and email address.

4. Pay any fees: Some microchip manufacturers may charge a fee to update your pet’s information. Make sure you’re aware of any charges before you agree to proceed with the update.

5. Verify the information: Once you’ve provided the manufacturer with your updated contact information, ask them to verify that the information has been updated correctly. Double-check all the details to ensure that they’re accurate.

Conclusion

Microchipping your pet is one of the most important things you can do to ensure their safety and wellbeing. However, it’s equally important to ensure that the information associated with your pet’s microchip is accurate and up-to-date. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your pet’s information is always current and that they can be reunited with you should they ever get lost. Remember to check your pet’s microchip information at least once a year to ensure that it’s still accurate.