Pet Microchipping in Scottsdale, AZ

What Is Pet Microchipping, and How Does It Work?

Pet microchipping involves placing a tiny, rice-sized device under your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. Each chip contains a unique 15-digit identification number that is registered to you through the microchip company. If your pet is ever lost and scanned by a veterinarian, shelter, or animal control officer, that number links directly to your contact information. 

Microchipping does not provide GPS tracking. Instead, it works as a permanent, scannable form of ID. Microchips are also used for international travel, since many countries require permanent identification for dogs and cats entering their borders.

What Are the Benefits of Microchipping Your Pet?

Microchipping offers several long-term advantages for your pet’s safety and well-being.

• Permanent and tamper-proof identification
• A significantly higher chance of being reunited with a lost pet
• Works even if collars or tags fall off
• Recognized by veterinary hospitals, shelters, and animal control agencies
• Helpful for travel, boarding, and proof of ownership

These benefits illustrate why pet microchipping and similar searches are so common among local pet owners.

Is Microchipping Required for Dogs or Cats in Arizona?

Microchipping is not legally required in Arizona, but it is strongly recommended for every pet. Some travel requirements, airline policies, and rental housing agreements may ask for permanent identification, and a microchip meets those expectations. At Kaibab Animal Hospital, we view microchipping as a core part of preventive care because of its lifelong benefits for safety and identification.

At What Age Can a Puppy or Kitten Be Microchipped?

Puppies and kittens can usually be microchipped once they are old enough to safely receive routine care. Many owners choose to microchip their pets during spay or neuter surgery, but it can be done at any wellness visit. Our team uses gentle handling techniques to keep your pet comfortable, making the process easy for even young pets.

Is Microchipping Safe for Dogs and Cats?

Microchipping is very safe. The injection is similar in size to a standard vaccination needle, and anesthesia is not required. Most pets tolerate the procedure extremely well, and complications are rare. Our doctors and nursing team take every measure to ensure your pet’s comfort throughout the visit.

What Information Is Stored on a Microchip?

A microchip stores only one piece of information: the unique 15-digit identification number assigned to your pet. No personal data is stored inside the chip itself. Some newer microchips also allow veterinarians to read your pet’s temperature, but the chip does not hold medical records or location data.

What Should I Expect During My Pet’s Microchipping Appointment?

Your pet’s microchipping appointment is a quick outpatient visit. Your veterinarian will complete a brief exam, inject the chip under the skin, and immediately scan it to confirm proper placement. Afterward, you will receive instructions on how to register the microchip through the manufacturer’s website. Registration is an essential step that connects your contact information to the ID number.

Do Microchips Expire or Need to Be Replaced?

Microchips do not expire or run out of power. They are designed to last for your pet’s lifetime. In rare cases, a chip may malfunction or migrate away from the original injection site. During your pet’s wellness visits, we can scan the microchip to make sure it is functioning properly and update your records accordingly.

How Much Does Microchipping Cost?

Microchipping costs can vary depending on your pet’s needs and the type of microchip used. We encourage you to call our hospital for the most accurate estimate. Many pet owners find that the long-term value of permanent identification far outweighs the initial cost, especially considering the emotional and financial toll of trying to locate a lost pet.

Why Choose Kaibab Animal Hospital for Your Microchipping Appointment?

Pet owners throughout Scottsdale trust Kaibab Animal Hospital for dog microchipping, cat chipping, and a wide range of preventive services. Our practice offers several important advantages.

• Comprehensive veterinary care in one convenient location
• Integrative medicine options such as acupuncture and spinal manipulation
• Advanced surgical expertise from Dr. Koch and Dr. Schwartz
• A gentle, compassionate approach to patient care
• On-site emergency and urgent care services
• A strong reputation supported by genuine, long-standing client reviews