The numbers are then stored in a database. There are four major manufacturers in the U.S. and Canada. Each keeps its own central registry. Microchips are implanted under the skin between the shoulder blades using a hypodermic syringe-like instrument. No sedation or local anesthetic is necessary.
Any discomfort only lasts a second or two.
Microchips should be scanned on a yearly basis to ensure they are functioning properly. The chips will normally continue to function beyond the animal s lifespan. After the chip is injected into the subcutaneous tissue, the owner will fill out a form including their name, address, phone number and that of an alternate contact person, the pet s veterinarian and the pet s name, sex, breed, age, identifying features, etc. The animal will not be registered until the registry enters the information into their data base. Implanting fees run between 40 and 60 dollars, depending on the microchip company and the veterinarian s fee.