Many pet owners assume that because their pet stays indoors, there’s no need for microchipping. However, the unexpected can happen to even the most cautious pet owners. Indoor cats and dogs are just as capable of getting lost as their outdoor counterparts. From open windows to curious visitors, there are many ways indoor pets can find themselves in unfamiliar surroundings. Microchipping gives them a lifeline to get back to you. Here’s why it’s essential to consider microchipping indoor pets and how BC Pet Registry makes it easier to protect your furry family members.
Table of Contents
1. Why Microchipping Indoor Pets Matters
It’s a common misconception that only pets who roam outside need to be microchipped. However, even pets who live indoors can escape or wander off.
- Open Doors, Loose Screen Doors and Windows: Indoor pets can slip out if a door is left open, whether by a visitor, family member, or during daily routines. Curious pets can also jump through open windows or dart out when deliveries arrive.
- Natural Disasters or Emergencies: Events like fires, floods, or earthquakes can lead to unexpected escapes. In these situations, a microchip provides a safe, permanent way to reconnect with your pet.
- Noise and Startle Factors: Sudden loud noises like fireworks or thunderstorms can frighten pets, causing them to bolt through any available exit. Even an indoor pet can end up miles from home in an attempt to find safety.
Microchipping offers peace of mind for these unexpected moments, ensuring that your pet has a permanent form of identification if they get lost.
2. Collars and Tags Aren’t Always Enough
While collars and tags are helpful, they don’t provide the same level of security as a microchip. Because the pet is indoor, they may not be wearing a collar at home to begin with.
- Easily Lost or Removed: Collars can fall off or get caught on branches, fences, or furniture, leaving your pet without any identification. If they manage to slip out of their collar, there’s no quick way to trace them back to you.
- Microchips Can’t Be Altered: A microchip is safely embedded under the skin and linked to a secure database. Unlike collars, microchips are a tamper-proof way of identifying your pet and connecting them with your contact details.
For a more reliable way to keep pets connected to you, microchips are the best option. BC Pet Registry’s How It Works page provides more details on how a microchip functions as a permanent form of ID.
3. Real-Life Success Story: Norman’s Safe Return
One winter, Norman, an indoor cat, managed to escape during a storm in Kelowna. He was missing for days, and his owners feared he might not make it back due to the harsh conditions. Thankfully, Norman was microchipped and registered with BC Pet Registry. A caring neighbor spotted him, took him to a local vet, and he was quickly reunited with his family.
Norman’s story is a reminder that even indoor pets can find themselves far from home, especially in stressful situations. You can read more about Norman’s journey here.
4. How Microchipping Works and Why It’s a Lifesaver
A microchip is a tiny device, about the size of a grain of rice, implanted under your pet’s skin. Each microchip has a unique identification number traceable to your contact details in a pet registry. If your lost pet is found and taken to a vet or shelter, they can scan the chip, locate your information, and help bring your pet home.
- Permanent Identification: A microchip can’t be lost or removed, providing your pet with lifelong identification.
- Universal Recognition: Microchips are recognized by veterinarians, shelters, and animal organizations across Canada and internationally. This is especially helpful if your pet travels with you.
- Easy Registration: The BC Pet Registry offers a simple registration process, making it easy for pet owners to update information and ensure that details are accurate. If you’re interested in registering, visit BC Pet Registry’s registration page to get started.
5. Keeping Your Information Updated
Microchipping is only effective if your contact information is current. Make it a habit to check and update your details regularly, especially after a move or phone number change.
- Access BC Pet Registry Anytime: The BC Pet Registry makes it easy to keep your contact information up to date. Visit the registration page to confirm that your pet’s details are current.
- Quick Updates in Emergencies: If an unexpected situation arises, you can quickly update contact details as well as adding additional emergency and co-owner contacts, giving you confidence that your pet will always be able to find their way back to you.
Be a Part of the 80% Responsible Owners
During our recent events, we scanned hundreds of pets, all with microchips implanted. Only to discover that approximately 20% of the pets’ microchips are not linked to any registries in North America. We recommend all pet owners to double check their pet’s registration and directly registering with us. All you need is the microchip number and/or tattoo code to start the online registration process. For a small, one-time fee of $45, your pet will be protected for a lifetime and you will also have contributed to the life-saving work of the BC SPCA.
6. Microchipping Indoor Pets Brings Extra Peace of Mind
Knowing your pet is microchipped provides an added layer of security and peace of mind. Microchipping is a one-time procedure that gives your pet a permanent form of ID. For indoor pets who may not have the outdoor world experience to navigate their way home, a microchip serves as a safety net.
Success stories like Norman’s show the importance of microchipping for all pets, whether they stay indoors or spend time outside. The reassurance that a microchip brings is invaluable.
Conclusion
When it comes to pet safety, microchipping is one of the most reliable ways to ensure your pet can always find their way back to you. Whether your pet is strictly indoors or spends time outside, a microchip gives them a permanent ID that can’t be lost or removed. The peace of mind it provides is invaluable, especially knowing that your pet can be safely identified if they ever go missing.
If you haven’t microchipped your pet yet, consider registering with the BC Pet Registry to take this essential step in pet safety. Your pet’s safety matters, indoors and out.
FAQ
Q: Why should I microchip my indoor pet if they never go outside?
Even indoor pets can accidentally escape. A microchip ensures they can be identified and returned to you, whether they’re found close to home or far away.
Q: Does microchipping hurt my pet?
Microchipping is a quick and simple procedure, similar to a vaccination. Most pets don’t feel any discomfort after the initial implantation.
Q: What if my pet already has a collar with a tag?
A collar with a tag is helpful, but it can fall off or get damaged. A microchip offers permanent identification that can’t be lost.
Q: Can microchips be updated if I move or change my contact info?
Yes, you can update your contact information easily through the BC Pet Registry. Regularly checking and updating your information ensures it stays accurate.
Q: How long does a microchip last?
Microchips are designed to last a lifetime. Once implanted, they provide permanent identification for your pet.
