A microchip is a small device placed under the skin, usually between the shoulder blades. When a shelter or veterinary clinic scans it, the scanner reads a unique number. That number is only useful if it is registered with a database that has your current contact information. Many owners have a microchipped dog but are not sure where it is registered or whether the details are still right. Here is how to sort it out.
Step one: find your dog’s microchip number
Look through your dog’s records. The microchip number is often listed on:
- Adoption paperwork from a shelter or rescue
- Purchase documents or health records from a breeder
- Veterinary records and invoices from the visit when the chip was implanted
- A sticker or card that came with the microchip
If you cannot find it, ask your veterinary clinic to scan your dog at the next visit. Many clinics will scan a chip quickly and give you the number. Ask them to confirm the chip is still working and in place while they are at it.
Step two: find out where the chip is registered
Microchips are made by different companies, and registration may be held by the chip manufacturer or by another registry. If you are not sure which registry holds your dog’s information, the American Animal Hospital Association offers a free Universal Pet Microchip Lookup tool at petmicrochiplookup.org. Entering the chip number shows which participating registries have information associated with it.
Step three: update or register your information
Contact the registry that holds your dog’s chip, usually through its website or by phone, and follow its process for updating details. You may need to create an account or provide proof of ownership, especially if the chip was originally registered to a shelter, breeder or previous owner. Some registries charge a fee for certain services, so check the registry’s own site for current details.
Make sure the registration includes:
- Your full name and current address
- At least one current phone number, plus a backup contact
- An email address you check often
- Your dog’s name, description and a photo, if the registry allows it
Step four: set reminders to keep it current
Information goes out of date quickly. Update the registry whenever you move, change phone numbers or change email addresses. Many owners pair this with another annual task, such as their dog’s yearly veterinary visit or the start of spring, and log in to confirm the details are correct. Save the registry’s contact information and your login with your dog’s records.
Why both a chip and a tag matter
A microchip is permanent and cannot fall off, but a finder needs a scanner to read it, which usually means a trip to a vet or shelter. A visible ID tag, including a QR tag, lets a neighbor contact you right away. The two work best together. Ask your veterinarian if you have questions about your dog’s microchip, including whether a rescan is a good idea.
