A pet microchip contains a unique identification number that is activated when scanned by a specialized device. One of the key reasons to microchip your pet is that the chip itself does not transmit data or contain personal information, ensuring privacy and security. Instead, it holds this ID number, which is linked to the pet owner's contact details in a secure manufacturer's database. When a lost pet is found, shelters or veterinarians scan the chip to retrieve the number and access the database, allowing them to contact the owner. Regular updates to the owner's information in the database ensure that the system functions effectively, providing peace of mind for pet owners.