Check the Chip: Microchipping Chicago’s Cats and Dogs

Microchipping Chicago’s Cats and Dogs

Losing a beloved pet is a heart-wrenching experience. It’s a nightmare no pet owner wants to face. While accidents and escapes happen, there’s a simple yet powerful tool to increase the chances of a happy reunion: microchipping. The “Check the Chip” initiative is a call to action for pet owners to prioritize this essential step in responsible pet ownership. National Check the Chip Day is celebrated annually on August 15th. In honor of this important pet-related holiday, let’s discuss microchipping Chicago’s cats and dogs.

What is Microchipping?

Microchipping is a painless procedure that involves implanting a tiny, electronic chip about the size of a grain of rice under your pet’s skin. This chip contains a unique identification number linked to your contact information in a national pet recovery database. If your pet ever goes missing, a veterinarian, animal shelter, rescue, and, in most cases, a local fire department, can scan the chip to retrieve your information and reunite you with your furry friend. Since 2018, animal care and police officers in Chicago carry microchip scanners.

Why Microchipping Matters

• Increased Chances of Recovery: A microchip is a pet’s silent guardian. If your pet wanders off or gets lost, a microchip significantly increases the likelihood of being found and returned home safely.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing your pet is equipped with a microchip provides invaluable peace of mind.
• Quick Reunions: In the event of a lost pet, a microchip can expedite the reunion process, saving you and your pet from unnecessary stress.
• Compliance with Regulations: In many areas, microchipping is becoming a legal requirement for pet ownership. While Chicago does not require microchipping at the time this blog is being published, city officials highly recommend the practice. More on the City of Chicago’s microchipping resources are covered below.

The Check the Chip Initiative

The “Check the Chip” initiative is a growing movement aimed at raising awareness about the importance of microchipping pets. It encourages pet owners to:

• Microchip their pets if they haven’t already
• Ensure their contact information is up-to-date in the microchip database
• Regularly have their pet’s microchip checked by a veterinarian to verify it’s still working correctly
• Spread the word about the benefits of microchipping to fellow pet owners

Chicago Microchip Resources

On the official website of the City of Chicago, you’ll find a list of resources where pet parents may get their pets microchipped. They have the following to say about microchipping Chicago’s pet population:

“Chicago Animal Care and Control strongly recommends that all pet owners microchip and obtain a collar and tag for your pets.  Cats that get lost are 9 times more likely to be reunited to their home if they arrive at a shelter with a collar and tag or microchip.  Dogs are 5 times more likely to be returned home to their owner if they have a collar and tag or microchip.  It is also the law for all dogs to have a city dog license.  If your pet gets lost and is found by our shelter we will research the tag and microchip information and contact you as soon as possible to let you know your pet is with us.”

Information on city dog registration and licenses can be found here and microchipping resources are located here.

Additional Tips for Responsible Pet Ownership

While microchipping is crucial, it’s just one part of responsible pet ownership. Here are some additional tips:

• Spay or neuter your pet: This helps control the pet population and reduces the risk of certain health issues. Spay and neuter usually also reduces escapes because fixed pets aren’t out on the prowl while intact pets have an innate desire to mate and may leave their home or property to find a suitor.
• Provide proper identification: In addition to a microchip, consider a collar with ID tags. Make sure the collar is properly sized so it doesn’t come off during a loss. One or two fingers is all you should be able to fit between the collar and the pet’s skin.
• Get regular veterinary care: Keep your pet up-to-date on required vaccinations, dental care, and invest in routine bloodwork to ensure all is well with your pet. When caught early, many pet-related illnesses can be controlled.
• Secure your yard: Prevent accidental escapes by ensuring your yard is securely fenced. Let your landscapers and contractors know that you have pets and avoid the use of doggie doors to ensure your pet is supervised while outdoors.
• Use secure equipment for walks: Make sure your collar is tightened and opt for harnesses for skittish dogs or avid pullers.

By microchipping and taking additional steps, you’re not only protecting your pet but also contributing to a safer and more compassionate community for all animals. Microchipping your pet is a small investment with a potentially life-changing impact.

If you are new to Floofins & Co. and interested in our dog walking, pet sitting, dog training, or pet photography services, please fill out our contact form. Once received, we will be in touch to further discuss your interest. You may also give us a call at 630-478-8915 or drop us a line at info@floofinsandco.com. We are happy to discuss our services from Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5 PM. Learn more about our in-home pet care new client onboarding process here.

If you are an existing client, please be sure you have provided your microchip information including registering entity in your pet’s profile. Log in here.