The Power of Microchipping: Ensuring the Safety and Identification of Your Furry Companion
As responsible pet owners in the Brisbane, we strive to provide our furry companions with the best possible care and protection. One of the most effective tools in this endeavour is the humble microchip – a small, implantable device that can significantly enhance the safety and identification of our loved pets.
In this microchipping guide, we’ll explore what is a microchip, how it works, the numerous benefits and frequently asked questions so you can take practical steps ensure your pet’s well being.
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What is a Microchip and How Does it Work?
A microchip is a small, radio-frequency identification (RFID) device that is about the size of a grain of rice. It is implanted just under the skin, usually between the shoulder blades of your pet, and contains a unique identification number. When a lost or found pet is scanned by a special reader, the microchip’s unique code is detected, allowing the pet to be quickly identified and reunited with its owner.
The process of microchipping your pet is quick, safe, and relatively painless:
- The microchip is injected just under the skin, usually between the shoulder blades, using a sterile needle.
- The procedure is typically performed by a veterinarian or trained animal care professional and takes only a few seconds.
- Your pet may experience a slight pinch or discomfort, but they will not require any sedation or pain medication.
- After the microchip is implanted, you will need to register your pet’s unique identification number and your contact information with a national pet microchip registry. This ensures that if your pet is ever found, the person who scans the microchip can quickly identify you as the owner and get in touch.
- Potential Risks: While the microchipping procedure is considered safe, there is a small risk of minor complications, such as infection or migration of the chip. However, these issues are rare and can be easily managed with proper veterinary care.
It’s also important to note that in Brisbane, microchipping is not only the responsible choice for pet owners, it is a legal requirement for all dogs and cats, by the time they reach the age of 12 weeks.
The Benefits of Microchipping
Microchipping your pet offers a range of advantages that can have a profound impact on their safety and your peace of mind:
- If your pet ever becomes lost or escapes, a microchip significantly increases the likelihood of them being identified and returned to you. Shelters and veterinary clinics routinely scan found pets for microchips, which can quickly reunite you with your furry friend.
- Microchips provide a permanent and tamper-resistant form of identification for your pet. Unlike collars or tags, which can be removed or lost, a microchip cannot be easily removed and will remain with your pet for their lifetime.
- If your pet ever requires emergency veterinary care, the microchip can provide quick access to their medical history and your contact information, ensuring they receive the best possible treatment.
- Microchips can deter pet thieves, as they make it much more difficult for stolen pets to be sold or re homed without being traced back to their rightful owner.
- In the event of a natural disaster or emergency, a microchip can help ensure your pet is quickly identified and reunited with you, even if they become separated from you or your home.
Tragically, many lost pets end up in shelters or animal control facilities, and a significant number are ultimately euthanised due to the inability to identify their owners. Microchipping your pet can help prevent this heartbreaking outcome, as it provides a reliable means of tracing ownership and facilitating the safe return of your companion.
Comparative Analysis with Other Identification Methods
Looking for other ways to easily identify your pet if they are lost? We’ve come up with this pros and cons list to help you make the best choice for your situation.
Tags and Collars
- Pros:
- Easily visible to anyone who finds your pet.
- Immediate contact information for quick return.
- Can include pet’s name and your contact details.
- Cons:
- Can fall off or be removed.
- Tags can become illegible over time.
- Only a small amount of information can be displayed.
GPS Trackers
- Pros:
- Track your pet’s location in real-time.
- Set up safe zones and receive alerts when your pet leaves these areas.
- Some GPS trackers also monitor your pet’s activity levels.
- Cons:
- More expensive than microchips, with some requiring a subscription.
- Needs regular charging, which can be inconvenient.
- Can be bulky and uncomfortable for some pets.
Tattoos
- Pros:
- A tattoo is a visible and permanent form of identification.
- Unlike collars or tags, tattoos do not need to be replaced or maintained.
- Cons:
- The process can be painful and stressful for pets.
- Tattoos can fade over time, making them hard to read.
- Only a small amount of information can be included.
Important Update: HomeSafeID Microchip Registry Has Shut Down – Here’s What You Need to Do
Feb 16, 2025
If your pet was registered with HomeSafeID, there’s an important change you need to know about. The HomeSafeID microchip registry has shut down, meaning that any pets registered with them no longer have an active database linked to their microchip.
This could be a serious issue—because if your pet ever goes missing, the microchip may not help reunite them with you. But don’t worry! You can take action now to make sure your pet’s details stay up to date.
Microchip registries are independent databases, and pet owners are responsible for keeping their contact details updated. With HomeSafeID shutting down, any information stored in their system is no longer accessible.
The good news? You can re-register your pet’s microchip with an active database to ensure they can still be identified if they are lost.
Steps to Check and Update Your Pet’s Microchip Details
Step 1: Find Your Pet’s Microchip Number
If you already have this number, you’re off to a great start! If not, check your pet’s adoption paperwork, vet records, or visit your vet, local council, or animal shelter to have their microchip scanned.
Step 2: Check Where Your Pet is Registered
Go to www.petaddress.com.au and enter your pet’s microchip number. If it shows that your pet was registered with HomeSafeID, you’ll need to re-register with an active database.
Step 3: Re-Register Your Pet’s Microchip
Since microchip details do not transfer automatically, you must choose a new registry. Here are some recommended options:
- Global Micro Animal Registry – Free re-registration: globalmicro.com.au/homesafe-re-registration
- Australasian Animal Registry (AAR) – One-time $15 fee: aar.org.au
- Central Animal Records (CAR) – Visit car.com.au or call 03 9706 3187
- Petsafe – Visit petsafe.com.au or call 02 8850 6800
Make sure you complete the registration process fully and receive confirmation that your pet’s details are now in their new database.
Step 4: Update Your Contact Details
Once you’ve registered with a new database, double-check that your phone number, email, and address are correct. If your pet is ever lost, the microchip is only useful if the contact details linked to it are accurate.
While we can’t update the records for you, we can:
✔ Scan your pet’s microchip and provide you with the correct number
✔ Guide you through the re-registration process and answer any questions
✔ Ensure your pet’s microchip is working correctly
Microchipping is a lifelong safety measure, but it only works when your details are up to date. If your pet was registered with HomeSafeID, take action now to re-register their microchip and ensure they’re protected.
Need your pet’s microchip scanned or have questions? Visit us—we’re happy to help!
Pet Microchip FAQ
While it is technically possible to remove a microchip, it is not recommended as it requires a surgical procedure. The microchip is designed to remain in place for the lifetime of your pet.
The cost of microchipping can vary, but it is generally an affordable procedure, typically ranging from $30 to $100. Many veterinary clinics and animal shelters offer discounted or subsidised microchipping services to make it accessible for all pet owners.
If your pet is found, any vet or animal shelter can scan the microchip and contact you using the registered details in the database. This significantly increases the chances of a safe return.
Microchips are designed to last for the lifetime of your pet. They do not have a battery and do not need to be replaced.
Updating your contact details is straightforward. Contact the microchip registry where your pet’s microchip is registered. This can usually be done online or by phone.
Microchip migration is rare due to advancements in technology. However, if it does occur, it usually does not affect the functionality of the microchip. Your vet can scan your pet to locate the chip.
No, microchips do not have GPS capabilities. They are passive RFID devices that only provide identification when scanned. If you want real-time tracking, consider using a GPS collar in addition to the microchip.
During your pet’s regular vet visits, ask the vet to scan the microchip to ensure it is functioning correctly. This is a simple check that can provide peace of mind.
To ensure the best chance of reuniting with your pet if they go missing, it’s crucial to keep your microchip information current and make sure your backup contacts are reliable individuals.
Start by verifying your pet’s microchip registration at www.petaddress.com.au. Once you’ve identified who your microchip is with, visit their website to find out their process on how to update the details on the microchip.
When acquiring a new pet, check the microchip status and have the original owner complete a change of ownership form to transfer the registration to your name. Don’t forget to update the microchip information if you move or change phone numbers.
Additionally, provide your pet with an external ID tag for quick identification. For extra security, contact 1300 36 37 36 to get a Very Important Pet tag, linking your pet to RSPCA Qld’s 24/7 Call Centre.
