Microchipping

A microchip is a small radio-frequency identification (RFID) implant the size of a grain of rice that serves as a permanent ID for your pet. Microchips are implanted under the skin and between the shoulder blades of dogs and cats. When properly registered, microchips are the most reliable method of pet identification. Unlike ID tags they can’t be lost, removed or deteriorate over time. When an animal is found without a collar or ID tags and taken into a shelter, the first step in locating the animal's owner is to scan the pet for a microchip.

How to get your pet microchipped 

It doesn’t take much to help ensure your lost pet’s safe return. All you need to do is: 

1. Come to Midland Animal Services or any Veterinary Clinic. For a limited time, microchips are free for current City of Midland residents 
2. Register the chip. Follow registration instructions. *We register microchips placed at our facility within 24 hours of it being placed.

Microchip FAQs

 We’re sure you still have a few burning questions about microchips. We can’t blame you —they’re pretty fascinating.

Will a microchip tell me my pet’s location? 
No. Pet microchips are not tracking devices and do not work like global positioning devices (GPS). They are radio-frequency identification (RFID) implants that provide permanent ID for your pet.

How old/ does my pet have to be to get a microchip?
We will microchip an animal once it is weaned.

How long will my pet's microchip last?
A microchip will last your pet’s lifetime because it’s composed of biocompatible materials that will not degenerate over time. Since microchips require no power source and have no moving parts, there’s nothing that can wear out and need to be replaced.

Will it hurt?
You must register your pet’s microchip in a national pet recovery database with your contact information, so you can be notified when your lost pet is found. Also, remember to keep your contact information up to date whenever you move or change phone numbers.

How do I make sure my pet's chip information is up-to-date and working?
If you know the brand and chip number of your pet's microchip call the chip manufacturers number and ask or look it up on their website. If you don’t know your pet's microchip number, have your pet scanned at Midland Animal Services, or your veterinarian's office. Remember: keeping your contact information up-to-date is vital if you want to find your lost pet.