Ensuring your pet’s safety is crucial, and microchipping is one of the most reliable and effective methods to guarantee that your dog or cat can be easily identified if they get lost. At Priest Lake Veterinary Hospital in Nashville, Tennessee, we offer safe and affordable microchipping services to help reunite lost pets with their owners. Our team is committed to providing high-quality care, ensuring your pet is protected and easily identifiable.

What is Microchipping for Pets?

Microchipping is a quick, simple, and permanent solution for identifying your pet. A tiny microchip, roughly the size of a grain of rice, is implanted just beneath the skin, typically between the shoulder blades. Each pet microchip carries a unique identification number, which links directly to your contact information stored in a secure pet database when scanned by a vet or animal shelter.

Unlike collars or tags that can easily break, fall off, or be removed, a microchip provides a permanent form of identification for your dog or cat. This small device increases the likelihood of your pet returning to you should they become lost.

Why Should You Microchip Your Dog or Cat?

• Permanent Identification for Dogs and Cats: Collars and ID tags can get lost or removed, but microchips are a permanent form of pet identification. If your dog or cat is lost, a microchip ensures they can be easily identified and returned to you.
• Increased Recovery Rates: Microchipped pets are more likely to be returned to their owners. According to studies, microchipped dogs are more than 50% more likely to be found and reunited. At the same time, microchipped cats are also significantly more likely to be returned than those without a microchip.
• Quick and Painless Procedure: Microchipping for pets is a quick and minimally invasive procedure typically done during a regular visit to your vet. It is similar to getting a vaccine and requires no anesthesia.
• Improved Pet Safety: Whether in the park, traveling, or just letting your dog roam in the yard, having your pet microchipped can give you peace of mind, knowing that your pet’s identification is always with them, even if they slip out of sight.

How Does Microchipping Work?

1. Implantation of the Microchip: The microchip is implanted just beneath the skin's surface. This quick and simple procedure does not require anesthesia; most pets experience little to no discomfort.
2. Microchip Scanning: Once implanted, your pet’s microchip can be scanned at any animal shelter, veterinary office, or rescue organization. The microchip contains a unique ID number, which is then linked to your contact details in a secure database.
3. Database Registration: After implantation, it’s crucial to register your microchip with your current contact information. Updating this information ensures a swift reunion with your pet if they go missing.

Why Choose Priest Lake Veterinary Hospital for Pet Microchipping?

• Experienced Veterinarians: At Priest Lake Veterinary Hospital in Nashville, we have years of experience in microchipping pets and ensuring the process is safe and straightforward for you and your pet.
• Affordable and Reliable Service: We offer affordable microchipping for dogs and cats in Nashville. Microchipping is a one-time, low-cost procedure providing long-term pet protection.
• Convenient Location in Nashville: We’re conveniently located in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee, making it easy for pet owners throughout the Middle Tennessee area to access reliable and professional microchipping services.

Common Myths About Pet Microchipping

• Microchips Are GPS Trackers: One common misconception about microchips is that they act as GPS devices, allowing you to track your pet in real time. However, microchips for pets are identification devices, not GPS trackers. They store only your pet’s identification number, which a scanner can read.
• Microchips are a Substitute for ID Tags: While a microchip is a permanent form of ID, we still recommend that your pet wear a collar with visible ID tags. If a lost pet is found and they have a collar, it may be easier for someone to contact you immediately.
• Microchips are Risky: The microchip implantation process is incredibly safe. No significant risks are associated with microchipping for pets, and complications are rare.

When Should You Microchip Your Dog or Cat?

You can have your dog or cat microchipped at any age, though it’s ideal to do so when your pet is young, during their routine vet visit, or when they are spayed or neutered. However, adult dogs and cats can also be microchipped without any issues.

Additional Benefits of Microchipping

• Pet Travel: Microchipping is a requirement for international travel with your pet. If you plan to take your dog or cat abroad, having them microchipped is essential to ensure they can be identified upon arrival.
• Emergency Situations: A microchip can be a lifesaver if your pet is ever involved in an emergency and cannot be identified. It helps first responders and animal shelters identify and contact you quickly.

Schedule Your Pet’s Microchipping Appointment Today