A Beagle in a vet office being scanned for a microchip

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Morgan Taylor-Rakocevic, VMD

Program Manager Veterinary Standards
Dr. Taylor-Rakocevic has been with Banfield since 2017. She graduated with her VMD from University of Pennsylvania in 20...
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microchipping pets: what every pet owner should know

Losing a pet is every pet owner’s worst fear, but a microchip can help bring them home safely. Microchips provide a permanent, reliable way to identify your pet if they’re ever lost, even if their collar slips off. At Banfield, we offer microchipping as part of our personalized care approach, making it easy to help identify your pet for life. From quick implantation to keeping your contact info up to date, our veterinary teams are here to make the process simple, safe, and stress-free.

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What is a pet microchip and how does it work?

A pet microchip is a tiny device (about the size of a grain of rice) that’s implanted just under your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. It doesn’t have a battery or GPS, and it won’t track your pet’s location. Instead, when a lost pet is found, a vet or shelter can scan the chip to reveal a unique ID number that’s linked to your contact information in a secure database. This simple technology can make all the difference in reuniting you with your pet if they ever go missing.

A cat in a vet's office getting a microchip
 

Why should I microchip my pet?

Microchipping gives your pet a permanent form of identification that can’t fall off or get lost, unlike collars or tags. It’s one of the most effective ways to help lost pets find their way back home. A study from the American Veterinary Medical Association showed that microchipped dogs are far more likely to be returned to their owners, and for cats, the rate was even higher. A microchip can be a factor used to demonstrate ownership and is required by law in some areas. Even indoor pets can slip out unexpectedly, and a microchip gives them a much better chance of coming home safely.

 

Is microchipping safe for pets?

Yes, microchipping is a quick, low-risk procedure that is similar to getting a routine shot. Most pets don’t react at all, though mild soreness or swelling at the injection site is possible. Rare side effects like chip migration or allergic reactions can happen, but they’re uncommon and usually not serious.

Concerns about microchips causing cancer or data breaches have been studied extensively, and current research shows no proven link to cancer and no personal information stored directly on the chip — only a unique ID number that connects to your contact info in a secure registry.

 

What happens during the microchipping procedure?

Microchipping is a simple, in-clinic procedure that’s similar to getting a routine vaccine. Using a sterile applicator, the vet places the tiny microchip just under the skin — usually between the shoulder blades. It’s quick and doesn’t require anesthesia. Most pets barely notice. Microchipping can be done at almost any age, but it's often recommended around 8 weeks or during a spay/neuter procedure for a pain and stress-free experience.

 

How to register and manage a pet microchip

Getting your pet microchipped is the first step, and registering it is just as important. Here’s how to make sure your pet’s microchip is fully functional and traceable:

  1. Register the microchip: After the chip is implanted, you’ll receive a registration form or instructions from your vet. Use this to link the chip number to your name, phone number, address, and emergency contact information.
  2. Keep info updated: If you move or change phone numbers, log in to your microchip registry account and update your details. This ensures you're always reachable if your pet is found.
  3. Transfer ownership: If you adopt or rehome a pet, be sure to transfer the microchip registration to the new owner. Most registries have simple online forms to make the switch.
  4. Confirm registration: Use the Microchip Lookup Tool to check that your pet’s chip is properly registered and linked to your info.

Need help? Your Banfield veterinary team can walk you through the registration process during your visit. It’s one more way we help make petcare simple and supportive.

 

What should I do if I find a pet with a microchip?

If you find a lost pet, take them to a local veterinarian, animal shelter, or animal control office. They can scan for a microchip at no charge. The scanner will reveal a unique microchip number, which can be use to search a national registry and contact the pet’s owner. From there, the microchip company can help coordinate a safe reunion. Microchips are one of the fastest, most reliable ways to get lost pets back home.

 

How much does pet microchipping cost?

The cost of microchipping a pet typically ranges from $25 to $70, depending on the provider and whether it’s bundled with other services. This usually includes the microchip itself, insertion procedure, and initial registration with a national database. With Banfied’s petcare packages, microchipping is available at a discount, making it easier to protect your pet without added stress on your budget. Ask your Banfield veterinary team about plan benefits that fit your pet’s needs.

 

FAQs about microchipping

A pet microchip is a tiny device, about the size of a grain of rice, that’s inserted just under a pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. It contains a unique ID number that links to your contact information in a national database.

No, a microchip is not a GPS device and doesn’t track your pet’s location. It can only be read with a scanner to access your contact details if your pet is found.

Microchipping is quick and causes minimal discomfort, similar to a routine vaccine. Most pets tolerate it well, and no anesthesia is needed.

After your pet is chipped, you’ll receive information to register the chip online with your contact details. Make sure to keep your info updated so the chip always leads back to you.

The risk is considered extremely low, and current research shows no conclusive link between microchips and cancer in pets. Microchipping is widely regarded as a safe and effective way to help reunite lost pets with their families.

Be sure to update your address and phone number in the microchip registry as soon as you move. This ensures your pet can still be returned to you if they ever get lost.

Microchips are designed to last for your pet’s lifetime. They don’t require batteries or maintenance.

Microchips are not meant to be removed, as they are safely embedded under the skin. In rare cases, removal may be considered for medical reasons by a veterinarian.

You can transfer the chip’s registration into your name by contacting the microchip registry. Your vet or shelter can help identify the registry using a microchip lookup tool.

Sometimes chips can shift under the skin. Your vet may scan different areas or use multiple scanners to locate it. If it still can’t be found, your vet may recommend re-chipping.

Microchip failure is rare. If a chip is unresponsive, your vet may recommend placing a new one and updating your pet’s registration with the new number.

 

Are you ready to microchip your pet?

Schedule your pet’s microchipping appointment today. Find a Banfield vet near you

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Published August 29, 2025

The information provided on this page is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult a veterinarian with any questions regarding your pet's health or medical condition. Never disregard or delay seeking professional veterinary advice based on information from this page.