They also require a certain amount of skill to apply in a legible manner if done with a freehand tattoo device. The latest means of identification to become available is the microchip. Identification microchips are about the size of a grain of rice, and made of biologically inert substances. Each microchip has a unique number encoded in it, and the chip is injected under the skin using a specialized needle and syringe. Normally the chip is placed under the skin of the back, between the shoulder blades.
Owners can register their pet's microchip number with a national registry.
In our practice area, all the veterinary clinics and animal control agencies are equipped with scanners which are used to check all incoming strays for microchips. Obviously, the success of microchip identification is dependent on the consistent and widespread use of the scanning devices. Microchips are an inexpensive, permanent means of identification that every pet owner should consider. By the way, microchips are not limited to dogs and cats. They are also used in birds, reptiles, and many valuable exotics.