Cost of Microchipping Domestic Pets: An Overview by Brittany Chrusciel, Published on July 30, 2025
Microchipping Your Pet: A Cost-Effective Solution for Peace of Mind
Losing a beloved pet can be a heart-wrenching experience. However, microchipping your cat or dog can significantly increase the chances of being reunited with them should they go missing. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) estimates that the cost of microchipping a pet in the United States typically ranges between $25 to $50.
The process involves a tiny, harmless device, about the size of a grain of rice, being injected under a pet's skin by a vet. Each microchip carries a unique number, which is stored in a secure database once properly registered. The cost of the microchip procedure usually includes the cost of the chip itself.
Registration of the microchip may or may not be included in the procedure cost, depending on the provider. Some registries do charge a one-time registration fee or even an annual fee to maintain your pet's place in the system, but many offer free registration.
If you're concerned about the cost, consider seeking out lower-cost providers such as local shelters, nonprofit or low-cost clinics, adoption events, or taking advantage of initiatives like June (National Microchip Month) or Aug. 15 (National Check the Chip Day).
It's essential to register your chip and keep the information up-to-date. If your pet with a microchip goes missing and is found, a professional can use a universal scanner to read the chip number and look up the pet's information to arrange a reunion.
Microchips do not track pets like a GPS collar and do not reveal personal data, only the microchip number. This makes them a reliable and private method for pet identification.
In a study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medicine Association, microchipped pets were found to be much more likely to be returned to their families than non-chipped pets. Among shelter dogs, microchipped dogs were more than twice as likely to be returned home than non-chipped dogs. The difference was even more drastic in the cat population, with 40% of studied cats with chips being reunited with their families, compared to less than 1% of unchipped felines.
While microchipping is not legally required in the U.S., it is highly recommended by veterinarians and animal welfare groups worldwide. If you're planning to travel with your pet, check microchip requirements as most countries require standardized microchips with 15 numbers that can be read by microchip scanners worldwide. If your dog’s microchip has only 9 or 10 numbers, you may need to get them re-chipped to travel overseas.
Finally, don't forget to mark your calendar for Aug. 15, or Check the Chip Day, to double-check that your cat or dog’s microchip is present, functioning, and up-to-date. By taking this simple step, you can ensure peace of mind and increase the chances of being reunited with your pet if they ever go missing.
- To enhance your pet's health-and-wellness, consider pet insurance that covers veterinary expenses for wellness care, such as routine check-ups, vaccinations, and dental cleanings.
- Technology plays a crucial role in pet care, with fitness-and-exercise apps like Whistle and FitBark that monitor a pet's activity levels, sleep patterns, and overall health.
- If you prioritize your pet's wellness, look into pet-focused health and lifestyle blogs for expert advice on pet nutrition, behavior, and home care tips.
- Incorporating pet wellness into your lifestyle doesn't have to be expensive; there are many DIY health and fitness activities, such as homemade pet treats, engaging brain games, and at-home exercise routines, that can improve your pet's overall health and happiness.
