Check that chip

Microchips can be invaluable to help find a pet that's gone missing, but sometimes clients don't recognize how important they can be. Use this script to help explain why clients should have their pets chipped-and to remind pet owners to check that the chip still works regularly.

Bonus tip: Scan the chip in the exam room for the pet owner if it's just been implanted, or to confirm that it's still working and hasn't migrated after several years. You can even take a video like this one to use on social media or your clinic website.

Client: My pet has an ID tag, so why do I need a microchip?

You: Losing a pet is devastating. That's why we use collars and leashes and sometimes spend a fortune on fencing to keep our pets safe at home. Unfortunately, none of these methods are foolproof. That's why we recommend microchipping your pet. Microchipping is a permanent form of identification that could help reunite you with your lost pet. Microchips are about the size of a grain of rice and are implanted in the shoulder blade area. Sedation isn't required to implant a microchip. After placement, we recommend you have the microchip scanned annually to ensure it's placed properly and still works.

Ciera Sallese, CVT, VTS (clinical practice), is a Firstline Editorial Advisory board member and a technician at Metzger Animal Hospital in State College, Pennsylvania.