Pet Microchipping is one of the most effective ways to ensure that your pet can be quickly identified and returned to you if they ever go missing. However, a microchip is only as good as the information linked to it. If your contact details are outdated or incorrect, it can be challenging for veterinarians or animal shelters to reunite you with your pet. This is why keeping your pet’s microchip information up to date is just as crucial as getting them microchipped in the first place.
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Why Is It Important to Update Pet Microchip Information?
When you first register your pet’s microchip, the contact information you provide is linked to the microchip’s unique ID number in a secure database. This information typically includes your phone number, address, and email. If your pet is found, a simple scan of the microchip will display an ID Number used to access this information, allowing animal shelters, veterinarians, or other authorities to contact you.
However, life changes—such as moving to a new home, changing your phone number, or even switching email addresses—can render this information outdated. If the contact details in the microchip database are not current, the microchip loses its effectiveness, as there will be no reliable way to reach you in the event that your pet is found.
For instance, a study by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) found that pets with microchips are more than twice as likely to be reunited with their owners as those without. However, this only holds true when the microchip information is accurate and up to date. This makes it essential for pet owners to update their information whenever changes occur.
Common Reasons Pet Owners Need to Update Microchip Information
There are several common situations where updating your pet’s microchip information is necessary:
- Moving to a New Address: If you relocate, the address on file must be updated to ensure any correspondence or emergency contact visits are directed to the correct location.
- Changing Your Phone Number: Your phone number is often the primary point of contact in emergencies. Updating this information ensures that you can be reached promptly.
- Switching Email Addresses: If email is used as a secondary contact method, keeping this information current is also crucial.
- Adding New Contacts: If you want to add an emergency contact, such as a trusted friend or family member, this information should be added to the microchip database.
How BC Pet Registry Makes It Easy to Update Your Information
BC Pet Registry understands the importance of keeping microchip information accurate and makes it easy for pet owners to update their details. The process is straightforward and can be done online through their secure platform.
Step-by-Step Guide to Updating Your Information
- Log in to Your Account: Visit the BC Pet Registry website and log in to your account. If you haven’t created an account yet, you’ll need to register first.
- Navigate to Your Pet’s Profile: Once logged in, navigate to your pet’s profile. Here, you’ll see all the registered pet’s information, and you will find your current contact details in “My Profile” in the top right-hand corner of the navigation menu.
- Update Your Information: Edit the necessary fields to reflect your new contact details. This can include your address, phone number, email, or adding an additional emergency contact.
- Save Your Changes: After making the updates, be sure to save the changes. BC Pet Registry will then update their database with your new information.
- Confirmation: You should be able to see your pet’s information updated within your account.
Keeping your information up to date with BC Pet Registry is a simple but vital task that ensures your pet is protected and can be returned to you as quickly as possible if they are ever lost.
Real-Life Success Stories
BC Pet Registry’s commitment to accurate and up-to-date microchip information has led to many heartwarming reunions between pets and their owners. One such story is about Toba, a rescued dog, who was separated from his owner. Thanks to Toba’s registered microchip, he was reunited with his owner, highlighting the importance of having up-to-date contact information. Read about Toba here!
Another inspiring story is about a kitty named Miss Kay, she went missing but was eventually found thanks to her microchip. Stories like these show how crucial it is to maintain current and accurate microchip information, ensuring a quick and happy reunion when pets go missing. Read about Miss Kay here!
What Happens If You Don't Update Your Information?
Failing to update your pet’s microchip information can lead to significant delays or even prevent your pet from being returned to you. In some cases, pets with outdated information may end up in shelters for extended periods, causing unnecessary stress for both the pet and the owner. This can also lead to complications if the shelter cannot reach you and must decide whether to place the pet for adoption.
For example, if you have recently moved and your pet goes missing, the shelter may attempt to contact you using the old address or phone number. Without updated information, they may be unable to reach you, and your pet may be at risk of being considered abandoned and rehomed.
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.
A Small Task with a Big Impact
Updating your pet’s microchip information is a small task that can have a significant impact on their safety and your peace of mind. By ensuring that your contact details are always current, you are taking an essential step in responsible pet ownership.
BC Pet Registry is committed to helping pet owners protect their furry family members. Their user-friendly platform makes it easy to update your pet’s information whenever necessary, ensuring that your pet can be quickly and safely returned to you if they are ever lost. BC Pet Registry remains the only database that owners can self-check if contact information is up to date, whereas for other pet registry databases you must submit a contact form or contact customer service, which we find is a huge benefit with no compromise in privacy.
Conclusion
Microchipping is an invaluable tool for pet safety, but it’s only as effective as the information it contains. Keeping your pet’s microchip information up to date is crucial for ensuring that they can be reunited with you quickly in the event of an emergency. With BC Pet Registry, updating your information is a simple process that can make all the difference in protecting your pet.
For more information or to update your pet’s microchip details, visit BC Pet Registry today.
FAQ
Q: Do I need to update my pet’s microchip information if I move or change my phone number?
Yes, it’s essential to update your pet’s microchip information whenever there are changes to your contact details, such as a new phone number, address, or email. Regularly checking and updating this information ensures it remains accurate.
Q: How do I update my pet’s microchip information?
Updating your pet’s microchip information is easy. Log in to your account on the BC Pet Registry website, navigate to your pet’s profile, and update your contact details. Be sure to save your changes to ensure your pet’s safety.
Q: What happens if my contact information is not up to date?
If your contact information is outdated, it may be challenging for veterinarians or animal shelters to reach you if your pet is found. This can lead to delays in reuniting with your pet or even your pet being placed for adoption. Keeping your information up to date helps avoid these issues.
Q: Can I add a co-owner or an emergency contact to my pet’s microchip information?
Yes, adding a co-owner and/or an emergency contact is a great idea. This can be a trusted friend or family member who can be reached if you are unavailable or out of town. You can add an emergency contact through your account on the BC Pet Registry website.
Q: What if I can’t remember my login information for the BC Pet Registry?
If you’ve forgotten your login information, you can use the password recovery option on the BC Pet Registry login page. Follow the prompts to reset your password or contact BC Pet Registry customer support for assistance.
