Microchipping Services for Pets | Sandy Paws Animal Hospital
Every year, thousands of pets go missing—and while collars and tags are helpful, they can fall off or be removed. That’s where microchipping comes in: a safe, simple solution that provides permanent identification for your furry family member.
At Sandy Paws Animal Hospital, we strongly recommend microchipping for all dogs and cats—even indoor-only pets.
What Is a Microchip?
A microchip is a tiny electronic chip—about the size of a grain of rice—that’s implanted under your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. It contains a unique ID number that links to your contact information in a national pet recovery database.
Unlike GPS trackers, microchips don’t require batteries or power. They’re passive devices that last your pet’s lifetime.
How the Microchipping Process Works
The process is quick, nearly painless, and can be done during a routine visit. It’s similar to a vaccine injection and takes just a few seconds. We then register the chip with your information—or help you do it yourself.
It’s important to keep your contact information up to date in the database so your pet can be returned quickly if found.
How Microchips Help Reunite Pets and Families
If your lost pet is taken to a veterinary clinic or animal shelter, staff will scan for a microchip. If one is found, they’ll use the database to contact you. Microchipped pets are more than twice as likely to be reunited with their owners than non-chipped pets.
Common Myths About Microchipping
- Myth: It’s a tracking device.
Fact: Microchips do not provide GPS tracking—they only work when scanned. - Myth: It hurts the pet.
Fact: It’s a quick, minor procedure that’s well tolerated. - Myth: It replaces collars and tags.
Fact: It complements them, offering a backup if those get lost.
Best Time to Microchip
Microchipping can be done at any age, but it’s often performed during spay/neuter procedures for convenience. Already have an adult pet that’s not chipped? It’s never too late.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Accidents happen. Pets slip out of yards, break leashes, or dash out open doors. A microchip offers peace of mind and greatly improves the chances of a joyful reunion.
Let Sandy Paws Animal Hospital help you keep your pet safe—schedule a microchipping appointment today at (904) 278-0600 or visit us at 550 Wells Road, Suite 17, Orange Park, FL 32073.
