Having your pet microchipped doesn’t mean implanting them with any sort of tracking device. The chips used in these simple procedures don’t even contain any personal information. Instead, each microchip features a unique identification number that’s linked to an online account. Upon registering the chip, your phone number and address are stored in your online account. If your pet is found and brought into a vet’s office or shelter, an employee will use a handheld device to check for a chip. Once the chip is detected, the device displays its identification number, which is then used to look up your contact information.

It takes just a few seconds to microchip a pet, and the procedure causes only minor discomfort. Like vaccines, microchips are injected using syringes. There’s no need for anesthesia, and no aftercare is required.