A microchip implantation, also known as an ID chip implant in Singapore, is a tiny electronic device that is inserted into an animal. It uses radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to track and register animals, which is beneficial for many reasons, such as exportation purposes or if they happen to go missing. The implant is tied to an ID number unique to your pet and linked to an external database containing their information, such as contact details, medications, medical history, and more.
Responsible pet owners should have microchip implants in their pets, and most, if not all, veterinarians recommend getting it done. Although it is a relatively painless procedure, some vets may do it while the pet is under anaesthesia for sterilisation surgery to minimise discomfort.
The Animal and Veterinary Service under the National Parks Board in Singapore requires all pet dogs to be licensed and have their microchips registered. Although it is not compulsory for other pets, such as cats, birds, and rabbits, it is highly recommended to get them microchipped too. If you plan to migrate, most countries require that your pets have ISO microchips as part of the pre-export requirements so they can easily identify them.
The microchip implantation procedure is simple as the microchips are tiny, around the size of a grain of rice. The microchip is typically inserted through a syringe, like an injection, under your pet's skin between the shoulder blades. It requires no surgery or anaesthesia and can be done at a quick visit to your veterinary clinic. There is no expiration date on a microchip once it’s inserted, and it can last the entire lifespan of your pet.
If you’re wondering if microchip implants are safe for your pet, rest assured that they are encased in silicon glass, which is non-toxic and will not cause any harm or allergic reaction to your pet. Some microchips are also made of polypropylene polymer, which holds the chip in place so it doesn’t move around once inside the body.
A microchip implant uses radio waves to transmit and hold information. A reader or scanner receives these radio signals and displays the ID number on an LCD screen. Animal shelters, animal hospitals, and veterinary clinics usually have these scanners on hand. The ID number is connected to an external database where your information is stored. The ID number and its corresponding information stays there forever and is never deleted.
Microchips are better for keeping track of your pet than collars, which can come off easily. If your pet happens to go missing, whoever finds them can access your contact information if they bring them to an animal shelter or vet by scanning the microchip. It is important to keep your contact information up-to-date for this reason.
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Once your pet is microchipped, their ID number can be scanned and registered to a database with your contact information.
Typically, your pet doesn’t feel pain during a microchip implantation procedure. However, there is a small risk of adverse reactions, such as inflammation or infection at the injection site. These side effects are extremely rare. If you notice anything unusual with your pet soon after their microchip implant, seek advice from your veterinarian immediately.
Only one session at a time is needed for microchip implantation as it’s a quick procedure. However, if your pet has any adverse reactions, they may need another session to remove or check the implant.
What information is stored on a microchip?
A microchip is an electronic radio transponder that stores your pet's unique identification number. This number is linked to a database with your contact details.
How are microchips detected?
Universal scanners, which can detect all microchip frequencies, are used to scan the microchips.
How long do pet microchips last?
Once it is implanted, the pet microchip never expires. It can stay in your pet's body for its entire lifespan and can be read by any universal scanner.
Why is it important to microchip your pet?
A microchip provides secure and reliable identification, which significantly increases the chance that your pet will be returned home to you if it gets lost. It is also compulsory to microchip your pet if you plan to bring them to certain countries.
What animals can you get microchipped?
As microchip implants are so small, any pet can have them inserted. Besides dogs and horses, this includes small breeds such as cats and rabbits.