Microchipping is a powerful tool for keeping your pet safe, but it’s only as effective as the information behind it. At Pinehurst Veterinary Hospital, we know that lost pets with microchips can still lead to dead ends because the owner’s phone number or email was never updated. Think of a microchip like a digital ID tag: if the contact info is outdated, the chip can’t do its job. Here’s what every pet owner needs to know about maintaining their pet’s microchip for lifelong protection.

Why Updating Your Pet’s Microchip Info Matters

Once a microchip is implanted, it’s easy to assume the work is done. But the real magic of microchipping happens in the online pet microchip database. If your contact information is missing, outdated, or incorrect, a scanner can only retrieve a number—not a way to reach you.

Without updated info, animal shelters and veterinary clinics won’t be able to notify you if your pet is found. Your pet could be considered unclaimed and put up for adoption. Plus, you lose one of the most effective tools in pet recovery.

When Should You Update Your Pet’s Microchip Information?

Any time your contact details change, so should your pet’s microchip registry.

• You move to a new address.
• You change your phone number or email.
• You need to change the emergency contact.
• You adopt the pet from someone else, and now you’re the primary owner.

Even something as simple as a typo or old cell number can block a reunion.

How to Update Your Pet’s Microchip Details

1. Find Your Pet’s Microchip Number. If you do not have the documentation, you can request this from the veterinary clinic that implanted the chip or ask your current veterinarian to scan it during your pet’s next wellness visit.
2. Locate the Registry Provider: Common registries include HomeAgain, PetLink, and 24PetWatch. You can also try this Microchip Registry Lookup tool from AAHA.
3. Log In or Create an Account: Visit the registry’s website and either sign in or create an account if you haven’t already, using the chip number.
4. Review and Update Your Info: Check your name, phone, email, and address. Some registries allow you to add multiple contacts, which is great for including a family member or trusted neighbor.
5. Save and Confirm: After updating, confirm that the information has been saved. Many sites will send you a confirmation email or summary of changes.

Tips for Staying Current with Your Pet’s Microchip

Add microchip info updates to your moving checklist. Use your pet’s annual wellness exam as a reminder to check info. Keep a backup record of the microchip number and registry login. Set a yearly calendar reminder to verify registry accuracy. These small bits of maintenance can save you days, weeks, or months of heartbreak if your pet ever gets lost.

Microchipping Maintenance Can Bring Pets Home

A microchip is one of the best tools for pet safety, but only when the contact information is accurate. Taking five minutes today to update your pet’s microchip details could mean the difference between being reunited and remaining separated. Pinehurst Veterinary Hospital is here to make the process of microchipping simple and stress-free for pets in Lacey, WA, Olympia, Tumwater, or the surrounding areas. Not sure if your pet’s microchip is current? Book an appointment at Pinehurst Veterinary Hospital for a microchip scan or to get your cat or dog microchipped.