If you have a microchip implant in your dog, there are a few ways that you can deactivate it. One way is to take your dog to the vet and have them scan the microchip to see if it is still active. If it is, they can deactivate it for you. Another way is to contact the microchip company and have them deactivate the microchip for you. You will need to provide them with the microchip number and your contact information.
How often do I need to deactivate my dog's microchip implant?
Pet microchips are unique identification devices about the size of a grain of rice. They are injected under the skin of your pet using a needle and remain there for the animal’s lifetime. The microchip’s radio frequency is detected by a scanner that is passed over the pet’s body. The scanner emits a radio wave that energizes the microchip so it can be read. The number on the microchip is then linked to the pet owner’s contact information in a database.
Most microchips use either the 125 kHz or 134.2 kHz frequency. But there are now chips that use ultra-high frequency (UHF) around 900 MHz and are beginning to be used in other countries for pet tracking (these can be read from much greater distances). In the U.S., the HomeAgain pet recovery service uses UHF chips that they claim can be read from up to 600 feet away with the right reader.
Pet microchips do not need batteries and have no moving parts, so they should last the animal’s lifetime. The chips are also relatively inexpensive, costing around $25 to $50 to purchase and have injected.
Although microchips are designed to be permanent, they can sometimes move within the animal’s body, which can make them difficult to read. If this happens, your veterinarian can use an x-ray to help locate the chip.
It’s important to keep your contact information up-to-date in the microchip registry, as this is the only way that you can be contacted if your pet is found. Most registries will allow you to update your information online or by phone. There is usually a small yearly fee to maintain your pet’s listing in the database.
If your pet is lost, the first thing you should do is contact the microchip company to report your animal missing and update your contact information. You should also contact your local animal shelters and vets and give them your pet’s microchip number so they can scan for it if your animal is brought in.
While microchips are not a replacement for proper identification tags, they are a great way to increase the chances of being reunited with your pet if they are lost.
What are the consequences of not deactivating my dog's microchip implant?
There are a few consequences of not deactivating your dog's microchip implant. The most common is that if your dog is ever lost or stolen, the person who finds or takes your dog may be able to take them to a shelter or veterinarian and have the dog scanned for a microchip. If the microchip is registered in your name, the finder or thief will know who your dog belongs to and may attempt to return the dog to you. However, if the microchip is not registered, or if it is registered to someone other than you, the finder or thief will not be able to locate you and return your dog. Additionally, if your dog is ever bitten by another animal or involved in a rabies incident, the authorities will be able to track you down using the microchip information and may require your dog to be quarantined or put down. Lastly, if you move or change your phone number, you will need to update your contact information with the microchip company so that they can reach you if your dog is ever lost or stolen.
Is there a way to deactivate my dog's microchip implant without surgery?
Yes, it is possible to deactivate a dog's microchip implant without surgery. The microchip itself is inert, and does not need to be removed. The chip can be deactivated by a Veterinarian, or the microchip company.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you remove a microchip from a dog before surgery?
If your veterinarian removes the microchip prior to surgery, simply smash it with a heavy object such as a hammer. Alternatively, you can follow any pre-surgical guidelines that your veterinarian provides.
How do I find a microchip in a dog?
There is not one specific way to find microchips in a dog. You can take your dog to your veterinarian and have it scanned, or you may have to try several animal shelters or clinics before finding the chip.
What happens if you don’t register a dog with a microchip?
If you don’t register a dog with a microchip, the shelter or vet won’t be able to find them if they ever get lost and end up in a new home. If your pet is ever seized by the police or other animal-control agency, their microchip could help track them down.
Why would someone want to remove a chip from a dog?
There are many reasons why someone might want to remove a chip from a dog. For example, the person may not be the dog's rightful owner and would like to get the dog registered as their own, or they may have been involved in an accident and do not want anyone to be able to trace the dog back to them. Whatever the reason, it is up to the individual to decide whether they wish to have their chip removed.
Should I have my dog's microchip removed?
There is no definitive answer, as each pet's situation is unique. Ultimately it depends on your dog's health, personality and overall disposition. If you're not 100% sure whether or not removing the microchip will be harmful to your pet, please consult with a trusted veterinary professional.
