How to Track a Pet with a Microchip

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Locate a lost dog using a pet microchip or GPS tracking device
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The thought of losing a pet can be scary, which is why microchips are widely used. Microchips are small electronic chips inserted in the back of a dog or cat’s neck. These digital devices store your pet’s information, including your contact information. When a vet scans the chip, you can be notified of your pet’s location. But how and why does this work exactly, and can it give you real-time tracking information? We’ve answered all your questions about microchipping and GPS tracking in this article, so read on to learn the best ways to track and locate your pet.

Can you track your pet with a microchip?

No, you can’t track your pet with a microchip, but it can help them be brought back to you if they’re lost. A microchip stores all of your pet’s information. When scanned, it shares your (the owner’s) contact information, but it cannot share your pet’s real-time location.

Section 1 of 7:

Is it possible to track a pet with a microchip?

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  1. Microchips are not GPS tracking devices, nor do they have a battery. Because of this, microchips cannot transmit a signal to be tracked or located. Instead, microchips are used to store information about your pet—almost like a permanent ID collar. Medical and contact information can be stored in the microchip so that if your pet is ever lost, a clinic or shelter can scan the chip and find out how to contact you. [1]
    • All in all, microchips are tools used to help contact a pet’s family and do not provide real-time tracking or location status.
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Section 2 of 7:

Locating a Lost Pet Using a Microchip

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  1. If you’ve lost your pet and they have a microchip, double-check that the chip number is registered in a microchip registry. Your pet’s chip manufacturer has its own registry, but you can also register your pet with a universal registry. [2] Search your pet’s information with the AAHA’s Microchip Registry Lookup feature.
    • If you’ve lost your pet’s microchip number, try calling the vet or clinic that installed the chip for the records.
  2. While it’s hard to wait for news about your lost pet, microchips must be scanned for you to be reunited with your pet. If your pet is taken to a vet or shelter, they will scan the pet to see if it has a microchip. They will then be able to look up your contact information and notify you of your lost pet. [3]
    • If you found a lost pet, bring them to a local vet clinic or shelter to have their microchip scanned. The vet should be able to help you get the owner’s contact information so you can return the pet safely.
  3. Even if you did not install a microchip in your pet, it may still have one. Many shelters install the chips in every pet they adopt. If your rescue pet is lost, contact the shelter to see if this is the case for your pet. If so, the shelter may be contacted if your pet is found. [4]
    • Make sure the shelter knows you want your pet back. Keep checking back with them to see if your pet has been found and returned to them, which may happen if the address on your adopted pet’s chip is still set as the shelter.
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Section 3 of 7:

How do microchips work?

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  1. A vet or shelter can scan the chip to find the pet's ID number, which should pull up the owner's contact information. In some cases, the chip can also help track the pet’s medical history if the registry you’re using allows you to enter it. [5]
    • Some microchip scanners and chips are not compatible. However, universal scanners are becoming more prevalent. [6]
    • Microchips are not GPS trackers, which provide a real-time location of a pet. These can be purchased and placed around the pet's collar.
    Allie Bender, Certified Dog Trainer

    A microchip allows lost pets to be identified and reunited with their families. The chip is implanted under the skin and contains a unique ID number. Animal shelters and vets scan for chips and contact the associated registry, which tracks registration info. As a pet owner, be sure to keep your contact data current with the registry.

Section 4 of 7:

Installing a Microchip & Registering Your Pet

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  1. Microchips are easy to insert with a needle as part of a regular office visit. Your pet won’t need any anesthesia, though your vet can insert the microchip while your pet is under for surgery, such as spaying or neutering. [7]
    • Your vet can help you decide if a microchip is the best option for your pet, so don’t be afraid to ask questions.
  2. A professional should install the chip, as issues can occur if injected wrong, so don’t try installing a microchip at home. Additionally, the chip must be injected in the correct place at a depth where a scanner can pick it up. [8]
  3. After inserting the microchip, you’ll receive a registration code from your vet. The microchip won't be useful until you complete registration, so follow your vet’s instructions. You can either call the given registration company or go online to finish setting up the chip. You’ll be asked for the microchip’s number, your name and contact information, and your pet’s name, breed, age, color, gender, and medical information. [9]
    • If you’re not sure how to finish the registration process, ask your vet for help. They may be able to help you complete the process in the office.
  4. The microchip is only effective if you keep your contact information updated; otherwise, veterinarians and shelters will have no way to contact you if your pet is found. To change the information, call the registration number for your manufacturer or go to their website. [10]
    • You will only need to update the microchip’s information if your contact information changes or the pet changes owners.
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Section 5 of 7:

Using an External GPS Tracking Kit

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  1. GPS trackers are great for finding your pet wherever they go using an app. GPS pet trackers work similarly to phone trackers—they tell you where your pet is in real-time. As long as your pet is wearing a GPS, you can hunt down their location with Bluetooth software. You can find GPS trackers that are appropriate for cats or dogs , but some are made specifically for one or the other. Look for one that is the best option for your pet. [11]
    • Most trackers clip onto your pet’s collar and typically range from $20 to $100.
    • Most companies require you to carry a subscription to their GPS tracking service to view your pet’s location.
    • Some GPS devices also send information about temperature, activity level, health monitoring, and related options. You can choose either a basic model or one with added features, depending on your preference.
  2. Your pet will need to wear the GPS tracker at all times. Some brands come pre-attached to a collar, while others are easily attached to your pet’s existing collar. [12]
    • If you have a cat, make sure that the collar is cat-safe to prevent injury.
  3. Once the GPS tracker is attached to your pet, you can easily check their location. Depending on your device’s features, you may also be able to keep track of where your pet goes over time, such as where your cat likes to roam when it’s outdoors.
    • Remember to change or recharge the battery when it gets low.
  4. 4
    Recognize the GPS tracker’s limits. These devices have a few limitations. They may fall off your pet or lose power or connectivity/signal. Play around with your device’s limitations before placing it on your pet. This way, you’ll know what to expect. [13]
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Section 6 of 7:

Microchipping vs. GPS Tracking

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  1. Microchipping and GPS tracking are not the same, but they can be used together to locate and identify pets. Think of a microchip like an ID card; it holds all of your pet’s personal information, which can only be accessed when scanned. On the other hand, a GPS tracks your pet’s location and whereabouts. [14]
    • Say a dog goes missing. If the dog has a microchip, someone can bring the dog to a vet clinic and have their microchip scanned to find the name and address of the owner. If the dog has a GPS tracker, the owner can find the dog’s exact location in real time.
  2. Microchips are small, chip-like devices that a vet inserts between your pet’s shoulder blades—it’s about the size of a grain of rice. [15] A GPS tracker is an external device that can be placed on your pet’s collar and be turned on and off.
    • GPS trackers come in all shapes and sizes, with the most popular being built into a neck collar.
    • GPS trackers can be controlled by the pet’s owner, but a microchip can typically only be accessed by a vet or someone with a microchip scanning device.
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Section 7 of 7:

FAQs

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  1. Microchipping a dog costs around $50 on average. However, the cost depends on the type of microchip, the veterinarian’s fees, and your location. [16]
  2. You can get your pet microchipped at your veterinarian’s office or a non-profit animal clinic. [17] For locations in your area, search “microchip pet near me” online or ask your vet for more information.
  3. Yes, you can check your pet’s microchip with your phone. Download a microchip scanning app, such as PetScanner or PetLink Pro . Follow the app’s instructions to locate your pet’s microchip.
    • If the app asks for the microchip’s number and registration information, your pet’s vaccination records will likely include them.
    • Keep in mind that microchip scanning apps aren’t foolproof and may not retrieve all the data or information you’re looking for.
  4. Microchips don’t have a tracking range as they’re not GPS devices; however, they do have a frequency. A microchip’s frequency refers to the type of radio wave it gives off, which is how a microchip scanner is able to read the chip. [18]
    • A microchip can only be read by a microchip scanner. The radio waves within the chip do not harm your pet.
  5. 5
    Can a microchip be removed or tampered with? It’s very difficult for a microchip to be removed or tampered with. Microchips are designed to be tamper-proof, thanks to their biocompatible material. [19] Even so, there is a very low chance that a microchip can be damaged or forcefully removed, especially if your pet is in an accident.
    • Removing a microchip is an extensive procedure and may require general anesthesia or surgery. [20]
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      Tips

      • Microchips usually last for up to 25 years and don’t need to be replaced. [21]
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      • Ask your vet to scan the chip anytime you take your pet in for a visit to ensure the chip still works.
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      • Microchipping has no age restriction, so even an older dog or cat can be chipped. It’s never too late to keep track of your pet!
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      Warnings

      • Keep your pet tagged at all times, even when using a microchip.
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      • In very rare cases, the microchip injection site may have side effects like oozing or swelling. If this happens, take your pet to the vet immediately. [22]
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/microchips-reunite-pets-families/microchipping-faq
      2. ↑ https://www.aaha.org/petmicrochiplookup
      3. ↑ https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/microchips-reunite-pets-families/microchipping-faq
      4. ↑ https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/microchips-reunite-pets-families/microchipping-faq
      5. ↑ https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/how-microchip-can-keep-you-and-your-pet-together
      6. ↑ https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/microchips-reunite-pets-families/microchipping-faq
      7. ↑ https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/how-microchip-can-keep-you-and-your-pet-together
      8. ↑ https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/how-microchip-can-keep-you-and-your-pet-together
      9. ↑ https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/home-living/how-do-dog-microchips-work/
      1. ↑ https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/home-living/how-do-dog-microchips-work/
      2. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/electronics-computers/gps-pet-trackers/best-gps-pet-trackers-a1117406199/
      3. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/electronics-computers/gps-pet-trackers/best-gps-pet-trackers-a1117406199/
      4. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/electronics-computers/gps-pet-trackers/best-gps-pet-trackers-a1117406199/
      5. ↑ https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/microchips-reunite-pets-families/microchipping-faq
      6. ↑ https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/microchips-reunite-pets-families/microchipping-faq
      7. ↑ https://www.forbes.com/advisor/pet-insurance/pet-care/microchip-cost-for-dogs/
      8. ↑ https://www.forbes.com/advisor/pet-insurance/pet-care/microchip-cost-for-dogs/
      9. ↑ https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/microchips-reunite-pets-families/microchipping-faq
      10. ↑ https://sacopeevet.com/microchipping-awareness-why-its-essential-for-your-pets/
      11. ↑ https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/microchips-reunite-pets-families/microchipping-faq
      12. ↑ https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/how-microchip-can-keep-you-and-your-pet-together
      13. ↑ https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/microchips-reunite-pets-families/microchipping-faq

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To locate a lost pet using its microchip, enter the pet’s chip number into an online universal registry. Then, if your pet is taken to a vet or shelter, they will scan it to see if it’s microchipped, at which point they’ll be able to access your contact information and notify you of your lost pet’s whereabouts. In the case of rescue pets, contact the shelter to see if your pet was chipped, and assure them that you want your pet back if they’re notified. Also, keep in mind that a microchip isn't a GPS tracker, so you'll need to wait until your pet's chip is scanned at a vet or shelter. To learn how to install a microchip in your pet, keep reading!

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