Microchipping
A microchip gives a lost dog or cat a permanent ID that a shelter or vet can read. At our Woodbridge hospital it can usually be placed during a routine visit.
What happens at the visit
Placing a microchip takes only a moment. The chip goes in with a needle, just under the skin between the shoulder blades, much like a routine vaccine. Most pets react about the same way they do to any other shot. Because it is so quick, many owners add it to a wellness exam or have it done while their pet is already asleep for a spay or neuter. After placement, we scan the chip to make sure it reads correctly before you head home.
To add a microchip to your pet’s next appointment, call (703) 680-4646 or request an appointment online.
What a microchip is
A microchip is a tiny device, about the size of a grain of rice, that holds a unique ID number. It has no battery and no moving parts. It sits quietly under the skin and is designed to last for your pet’s lifetime.
When a shelter, animal control officer, or veterinary office finds a lost pet, they pass a handheld scanner over the animal. The scanner reads the ID number, and they look that number up in a pet recovery registry to find the owner.
What a microchip is not
A microchip is not a GPS tracker. It cannot show you where your pet is on a map, and it does not send out a signal. It only works when someone finds your pet and scans it. It also does not store your medical records.
That is why a chip works best alongside a collar and tag. A tag lets a neighbor call you right away. The chip is the backup if the collar slips off.
Registering and keeping your info current
A chip is only as useful as the contact information linked to it. After placement, you will need to register the chip number with your name, phone number, and address. If you skip this step, a scanner will find a number that leads nowhere.
- Register the chip as soon as you get home.
- Update it any time you move or change your phone number.
- Add a second contact, such as a family member, if the registry allows it.
- Keep the chip number with your pet’s records.
Checking an existing chip
If you adopted a pet that came with a chip, or you are not sure your pet has one, we can scan during any visit. It is a good habit to have the chip checked at each yearly exam so you know it still reads. This applies to dogs and cats alike, including indoor cats, who can slip out a door when you least expect it. For families in Woodbridge and across Prince William County, a working chip can make the difference between a lost pet and a quick phone call.
Common questions
Does a microchip hurt my pet?
It feels much like a routine vaccine. Most pets notice it for a second and then go back to what they were doing.
Can I track my dog or cat with a microchip?
No. A microchip has no GPS and no power source, so it cannot show your pet's location. Someone has to find your pet and scan it for the chip to help.
Does my indoor cat need a microchip?
Indoor cats can get out through an open door or a torn screen, and many have no collar on when they do. A chip gives them a way home if that happens.
How do I register my pet's microchip?
You register the chip number with a pet recovery registry and add your contact details. Ask us at your visit if you are not sure where your pet's chip is registered.
What if I move or get a new phone number?
Update your registry record right away. A chip linked to an old number cannot help anyone reach you.
Can you check whether my pet already has a chip?
Yes. We can scan your pet during any visit. Call (703) 680-4646 if you would like us to check.
Can a microchip be placed during spay or neuter surgery?
Yes, many owners choose to do it then, since their pet is already asleep. Just let us know ahead of time that you would like one placed.
Questions, or ready to book?
Call us during open hours or send a request online and we will call you back to set a time.