A microchip is the single most reliable form of permanent identification for your pet. Unlike collars and tags that can fall off, a microchip stays with your animal for life. South Pasadena Animal Hospital offers microchipping for dogs, cats, and many exotic pets at our Alhambra clinic.
A microchip is a small passive RFID device, roughly the size of a grain of rice, that is inserted just under the skin between your pet's shoulder blades. The chip has no battery and no moving parts — it sits dormant until a compatible scanner is passed over it, at which point it transmits a unique identification number.
That ID number links to your contact information in a pet recovery database. When a lost pet is brought to a shelter, animal control facility, or veterinary clinic, staff scan for a chip as a routine step. If a match is found and your registration is current, you get a call.
The chip is inserted with a needle — similar to a vaccine. The whole process takes under a minute and requires no anesthesia.
We help you register your pet's chip number with a national database so your contact information is linked and searchable.
The chip never needs charging or replacing. As long as your registration stays current, your pet is protected for life.
Collars and tags are the first line of identification, but they can slip off, break, or become unreadable. A microchip is the backup that works even when everything else fails. Shelters and vet clinics across the country routinely scan incoming animals for chips — it is one of the most widely used reunification tools in veterinary care.
The most important thing after microchipping is keeping your registration current. If you move or change phone numbers, update your registry record. A chip linked to an old address is far less useful in a lost-pet situation.
Microchipping is standard for dogs and cats of all ages. It can be done during a routine visit, at the time of a spay/neuter procedure, or as a standalone appointment. We recommend chipping young pets early.
Rabbits, ferrets, and larger reptiles can often be microchipped as well. Whether your exotic pet is a good candidate depends on species and size. Our team can advise you at your visit. Learn more about our exotic services.
Unlike GPS trackers, microchips require no battery, no subscription, and no charging. Once implanted and registered, there is nothing to maintain except keeping your contact details up to date in the registry.
Microchipping at SPAH is an affordable, one-time procedure. View our published pricing so you know the cost before you arrive — no surprises at checkout.
The procedure is similar to a routine vaccination. A small chip is inserted under the skin between the shoulder blades using a needle. Most pets show little to no reaction, and no anesthesia is needed. The entire process takes under a minute.
A microchip is a passive RFID device with no battery. It activates only when a compatible scanner is passed over it, transmitting a unique ID number. That number links to your contact information in a pet recovery registry.
Yes. The chip is only useful if your contact information is in a registry. We walk you through registration at your visit. Keep it updated whenever you move or change your phone number.
Many exotic pets can be microchipped, including rabbits, ferrets, and larger reptiles. Feasibility depends on species and size. Ask our team at your visit whether microchipping is right for your specific pet.
Contact local shelters and vet clinics immediately and ask them to scan for a chip. File a report with your local animal control and contact your microchip registry to flag your pet as lost. Acting quickly gives you the best chance of a reunion.
Microchipping is a quick, one-time visit. We're at 3116 W Main St in Alhambra. Book online or call us to add microchipping to your next appointment. View pricing.