Microchip
What is a Microchip?
A microchip is a device about the size of a grain of rice that provides a permanent means of positive animal identification that cannot be lost, damage, removed or wear out. Animal health professionals insert the microchip by safe, painless injection between the animal’s shoulder blades, normally requiring no local anesthetic. Once implanted, the microchip requires no further attention during the animal's life. Owner information can be accessed by scanning, ensuring the rapid return of a lost animal.
This will reduce the amount of animals impounded and killed in Albuquerque. Microchip information will also assist in reminding pet owners to register and vaccinate their animals. A numerical tattoo is also acceptable in lieu of a microchip. If your animal has a current rabies vaccination and license you can wait until your next veterinarian visit to get a microchip. By law, all dogs and cats must be microchipped by April 10, 2007.
Are Microchips Safe?
There is no known report of microchips causing cancer. The chip is 'non-reactive' surgical stainless steel, similar to what would be used in a bone fracture repair. It should be injected in the deep subcutaneous tissue between the shoulder blades. The chip can occasionally "migrate", or move down the side of the neck.
Will Animal Welfare Microchip my Pet?
If you adopt a pet from the Animal Welfare Department, the microchipping cost is included in the adoption fee.
Anyone may bring in a dog or a cat to get a microchip at either our Westside or Eastside shelters during business hours.
Effective April 10, 2007, the following is required to microchip your pet.
- Personal ID and over 18 years old
- Proof of ownership
The cost is $15 per pet microchip. For qualified low income or seniors age 50 or older, the microchipping will be free of charge.