Demystifying Microchip Removal In Dogs (2024)

Ever wondered about the tiny gadget inside your dog that keeps them safe? It’s the microchip!

These little lifesavers are about as tiny as a grain of rice but super powerful when it comes to finding your pup if they ever get lost. So, what if you need to remove one? Let’s jump into why and how you might need to say bye-bye to that microchip.

Why Microchip a Dog in the First Place?

Before we dig into removing them, let’s chat about why microchips are a big deal. They give your dog a unique ID number that’s all their own. If your furry friend ever wanders too far and gets lost, this number helps vets or shelters track you down fast.

No collar? No problem! Your dog isn’t just another lost pup—they’re part of your family, and with a microchip, they’ll find their way back to you, tails wagging!

Ready to supercharge your pet’s safety? By registering with Peeva, you’re not just giving them a microchip; you’re connecting to a nationwide network that makes finding lost pets faster and easier than ever. Our unique system ensures that if your dog ever gets lost, their microchip will have all the up-to-date info needed to get them back to you quickly. Don’t wait—secure your peace of mind and ensure your furry friend is always a scan away from home!

Reasons to Consider Microchip Removal

Alright, so you get it. Microchips are superheroes in the world of lost and found. But why would someone want to remove one?

Health Complications:

While it’s rare, some dogs might develop a localized reaction around the microchip site. It might be a bump, swelling, or even an infection. In cases like this, a vet might recommend removal.

Migration of the Chip:

Sometimes, the microchip may migrate from its original position, typically between the shoulder blades, to another location. If it causes discomfort or is at risk of causing harm, removal might be on the cards.

Updating Information:

A common misconception! You don’t need to remove and replace the microchip if you need to update your contact details. The data associated with the chip is stored on external databases. A simple online process usually updates it. However, there are instances where a chip might be old or faulty, and a new chip becomes necessary. In such cases, removing the old one is a logical step.

The How-To of Microchip Removal

Here’s the thing. If your canine buddy needs a microchip removal, it’s not a do-it-yourself task. This is a procedure for the professionals.

Consultation with the Vet: Your first port of call is your trusted vet. Describe the issue, and they’ll guide you on the next steps. They might ask for a physical examination to assess the situation further.

The Procedure: If the vet decides the chip needs to go, they’ll set up an appointment. The removal is a minor surgical procedure. Under local anesthesia, a small incision is made, the chip is located, and then carefully extracted. Stitches may or may not be required, depending on the incision’s size.

Post-Operative Care: Like any procedure, there’s a tad bit of aftercare. Your vet will provide guidelines on wound care, possible medications, and what activities your dog should avoid for a few days. But here’s the good news: Fido will be up and about in no time!

Microchips in dogs are truly lifesavers. But as with anything, sometimes they might need removal. Being informed and proactive is the way forward. Always consult your vet and ensure your furry friend’s health and comfort come first.

How to deactivate microchip implant in a dog?

The very idea of deactivating a microchip might raise a few eyebrows. After all, why get a microchip implanted only to disable it later? The reasons can be varied, from privacy concerns to changing microchip standards. Whatever the rationale, it’s essential to understand what “deactivation” means in this context.

The Reality of “Deactivation”

Contrary to what some might think, “deactivating” a microchip doesn’t mean the chip is rendered useless or is shut off like electronic devices. Instead, it means that the unique ID associated with the chip is invalidated or delisted from the registry database.

Steps to Deactivate a Dog’s Microchip Implant

Confirm Your Decision: Before you proceed, ensure that deactivation is what you genuinely want. It’s a significant step, especially if your pet gets lost, the microchip won’t serve its primary function of reuniting you two.

Locate the Microchip’s Details: Gather all the paperwork related to your dog’s microchip. This would include the unique identification number, the brand or company of the microchip, and any registration information.

Contact the Microchip Registry: The next step is to get in touch with the company or organization where your pet’s microchip is registered. This might be directly with the microchip company or with an independent registration service.

Submit a Deactivation Request: Once you’ve reached the right people, request a deactivation or delisting of the microchip. They might ask for a reason, but most companies will process your request without a hassle.

Get a Confirmation: Ensure you receive a written confirmation stating that the microchip’s ID has been deactivated or removed from their database. This will serve as proof should any confusion arise in the future.

Alternatives to Deactivation

If your primary concern is privacy or data security, there are alternative approaches to consider:

Update Registration Details: If you’ve moved or changed contact details, simply update your current address and phone number. This ensures your dog can be returned to you if lost, without giving away outdated or unwanted information.

Switch to a Different Registry: If you have concerns about the specific company or organization holding your dog’s microchip data, consider registering the chip with a different, perhaps more reputable, registry.

Things to Keep in Mind

Once deactivated, it’s not always straightforward or even possible to reactivate the same microchip ID in some databases.

If you ever change your mind, you might need to implant a new microchip and go through the registration process again.

Even if the ID is deactivated, the physical chip remains inside your pet unless surgically removed.

The decision to deactivate a dog’s microchip should not be taken lightly. It’s there for a reason – to safeguard your furry friend. However, as responsible pet owners, the choice is ultimately yours. If you choose this route, ensure you follow the steps diligently and keep your pet’s safety at the forefront of all decisions.

FAQs on Dog Microchips

1. Can a magnet erase a pet microchip?

No, a magnet cannot erase a pet microchip. Microchips are not like magnetic strips on credit cards. They are radio-frequency identification (RFID) implants, which means they don’t rely on magnetism to store data. Using a magnet around a microchip would not affect its functionality.

2. Can a microchip be removed from a dog?

Yes, a microchip can be removed from a dog. However, it requires a minor surgical procedure performed by a veterinarian. Typically, microchips are removed if they cause health complications, migrate from their original position, or if there’s a need to replace an old or faulty chip.

3. How long does a microchip last in a dog?

Microchips are designed to last a lifetime. They don’t have any moving parts or batteries, which means they don’t wear out or run out of power. Once implanted, the microchip should serve its purpose for the entirety of your dog’s life.

4. Is microchipping painful for the dog?

The microchipping procedure is quick and causes minimal discomfort. It’s comparable to getting a vaccination shot. Most dogs barely notice, and any discomfort is brief.

5. Can a deactivated microchip be reactivated later?

It depends on the microchip registry’s policies. While the physical microchip remains functional in the dog, once its unique ID is deactivated or delisted from a database, it may not always be straightforward to reactivate. It’s crucial to check with the specific registry or company about their reactivation policies.