1. What is a Microchip?

A microchip is a tiny computer chip that has an identification number programmed into it and is encapsulated within a biocompatible material. The whole device is small enough to fit inside a hypodermic needle and can be simply injected under the skin of our pets where it will stay for the life of the animal. This provides a permanent, positive identification that cannot be lost, altered or removed - a safe, simple and inexpensive way to protect your pet against loss or theft.

2. How does a Microchip work?

The computer memory in a microchip contains a unique number - no two animals will ever have the same number. A radio signal is used to read this number through the skin of your pet. In addition to the number, the microchip generates a reliability check to guarantee that your pet's identifying number is read accurately.

3. How much does the injection cost?

If you are comfortable with giving a vaccination you will be able to follow the enclosed instructions and inject the chip yourself. If you are more comfortable having it set by your veterinarian, we have heard fees ranging from $25 to $40 depending on the area of the practice and what other services are being offered. Many retailers or veterinarians provide a discount if your pet is identified at the time of purchase or while in for routine grooming, surgery, dental work, or vaccinations. The fee is certainly less than the cost of trying to locate a lost pet. The cost of printing and hanging fliers, placing ads and rewards, calling shelters, and taking time off of work can be substantial. Not to mention the anguish and worry or worse...the heartbreak of being too late.

4. How long does a Microchip last?

Once injected under the skin of your pet, the microchip becomes encased by a thin layer of protein that anchors it in place for the rest of the life of your pet. It does not pass through or out of the body. The microchip itself has no power supply to replace or moving parts to wear down. Therefore, it can be expected to last for decades - well beyond the lifespan of most pets.

5. What is the youngest age a pet can be Microchipped?

Animals of any age can be injected with a microchip. Puppies and kittens are identified during their initial vaccine series. Birds, horses and exotics can be identified at any time.

6. My pets never leave my yard. Why should they be identified with a Microchip?

It only takes one time for the mailman, gardener, meter reader, neighbor or friend to leave the gate open or the door ajar. Unaltered pets in particular have a desire to roam. Pet theft is also a daily occurrence. Well-behaved pets are sold for research. Animals such as purebreds, birds and exotics are valuable and are stolen for resale. Even horses are frequently stolen and sold for slaughter. Most shelters destroy the majority of pets they impound. They are destroyed only because they are not identified.

7. Does my pet have to be sedated for the injection?

No! Injecting a Microchip is just like any other injection or vaccination. Anesthesia is not required or recommended since there is minimal discomfort with the procedure.

8. Does the procedure hurt my pet?

Not at all. The injection creates only a slight discomfort - most pets don't even react to it. The microchip is encapsulated in a specially formulated biocompatible material created specifically for this kind of application.

9. Could my pet be allergic to a Microchip?

Microchips are inert and biocompatible. There is virtually no chance of the body developing an allergy or trying to reject the microchip after being properly injected.

10. How do I know the shelter will be able to check for the Microchip?

American Animal Welfare Society / United Pet Services / Avid offers an innovative program designed to place readers in shelters at no cost to the shelter, or the taxpayer! Area retailers, veterinarians, and American Animal Welfare Society / United Pet Services / Avid are donating readers to shelters that promise to check animals for Microchips.

11. If my pet is found, how does the shelter know to contact me?

When a shelter finds a pet with a microchip they will contact American Animal Welfare Society / United Pet Services / Avid. If the pet is registered the shelter will be given the owner's name.

12. What are some available Microchip Solutions?

Homeward Bound is a global computerized tracking system for companion animals identified with the American Animal Welfare Society / United Pet Services / Avid Homeward Bound Microchip. When you become a member, Homeward Bound can reunite your pets directly with you. You can obtain more information at United Pet Registry.

For special pricing please contact a provider at:

United Pet Registry
P.O. Box 408
West Plains, MO 65775-0408