What is a Microchip  A Microchip is a tiny transponder which is the size of a grain of uncooked rice. This is a permanent identification system implanted under the pet's skin and read by a chip scanner. Implantation is done with an injector that places the chip under the loose skin over the pet's shoulder. Basically, Microchips reunite lost or stolen companions and reduce overcrowding of animal shelters.
Advantages - the process is quick and no more painful than a vaccination, the chip can't get lost, the number is unique, the pet doesn't have to be wrestled to the ground and shaved to see if it's there, and the owners name and address is available on regional or national databases so a pet can be returned quickly and safely. The chip identification number is stored in a tiny transponder that can be read through the pet's skin by a scanner emitting low-frequency radio waves. The frequency is picked up by a tiny antenna in the transponder, and the number is retrieved, decoded, and displayed in the scanner readout window. The radio waves use a frequency much lower than AM broadcast stations use, and they must be approved by the Federal Communications Commission before they can be marketed. The chip, antenna, and capacitor are encased in a tiny glass tube. The tube is composed of soda lime glass, which is known for compatibility with living tissue. The glass is hermetically sealed to keep moisture out. Microchips Save Pets Lives  Each year the nation's animal shelters receive 8 to 12 million pets and euthanize 30-60% according to HSUS (Humane Society of the United States)
Only 4% of cats and 14% of dogs in animal shelters are reunited with their owners. 20-35% of shelter animals get adopted by new owners. More than 4 million pets are euthanized in animal shelters each year. The HSUS estimates that impounding shelter animals costs $1 billion per year. For more information regarding Microchips and how they can help you and your pet, please contact the Belle Mead Animal Hospital at (908) 874-4447. | 
