We support many happy reunions between pet and parent with safe, easy microchipping

At San Marco Animal Hospital in Jacksonville, Florida, we are all about protecting pets from illness, trauma, and other situations that can threaten their overall well-being and lives. So we feel that one of the best things that you can do for your pet is to protect him or her with a routine, non-invasive preventive procedure: microchipping. In undergoing this minor service, your pet’s relationship with you is also protected and sustained. 

Chip safety

The electronic chip itself resembles a tiny cylinder or tube. It is only about the size of a grain of rice. The chip is not GPS tracking; it cannot be used to find your dog or cat if he or she escapes or is otherwise lost. Happy reunions are facilitated by veterinarians such as our team and by other animal care or welfare providers who pass a scanner over the area that contains the chip (in between the shoulder blades). The scanner emits safe radio waves to activate the microchip. As this process occurs, a unique identification number is communicated. 

Each pet has his or her own unique identifier. Only the microchip registry has access to your contact information. So, you can be reunited with your pet. No other parties have your phone number or other contact details. Your privacy is in good hands, as is the health of your pet. 

No-risk process

The process of placing the chip is incredibly straightforward. The chip is merely applied under the skin via a needle and is often compared to a standard injection. It is not surgery. So anesthesia is not necessary, and there is nothing to recover from; you leave our hospital with peace of mind that you’ll see your bestie again should you ever become separated. There is no aftercare or maintenance, and chips don’t break or fall off like tags. They are also not subject to tampering like tags. In fact, this process is so simple that we can get your pet chipped during other routine procedures, such as his neuter or her spay.

We do encourage you to ensure that your contact information remains up-to-date and complete in the registry. This can be overlooked following a move, as there are so many boxes to check off during such significant life transitions. We can also regularly scan the microchip during visits to assure it is still working as intended. 

Know this: Microchips are effective. The American Veterinary Medical Association reports that more than 50% of microchipped dogs and 39% of microchipped cats were reunited with their families (just 22% and 1.8% of non-chipped dogs and cats, respectively, were reunited). 

Protect your pet today. Call San Marco Animal Hospital at 904-516-9767 to schedule an appointment.