The Crucial Reason You Should Microchip Your Pets As Part Of Your Holiday Prep

The holidays can be hectic. Between guests coming and going, all the travel to strange places, and the general hustle and bustle of shopping, there's plenty to keep you busy. When you add a pet to the mix, the stress can multiply exponentially. However, reading up on the proper pet etiquette when visiting holiday guests isn't the only thing you should be doing this season. If you want to keep your pets safe, you should make sure they're microchipped. 

During the holidays, nervous pets may dart out the front door when guests arrive. In addition, loud noises like New Year's Eve fireworks may cause your pup to panic and try to escape. Unsecured backyards can become the perfect chance for your pet to get free while you're preoccupied with guests inside. Lastly, unfamiliar surroundings during holiday travel, such as strange homes or long car rides, may open up opportunities for your pet to escape. Now, it may be tempting to think that a festive candy-cane or jingle bell collar will help you track them down in the event your pet goes missing. However, if your pet goes truly missing, there's a chance they could lose any external identification.

Having a microchip increases the chance your pet is brought back home safely should they escape. Wintry conditions can make it harder for them to return on their own, as snow and ice can hide familiar scents. In addition, local animal shelters and vet clinics are often busiest after the holidays. A microchip is a way to connect your lost pet back to you — especially if they've lost their collar or any other identifiable information.

If you recently adopted an adult cat or dog, you may wonder if there's a way to check if they're microchipped. Your vet can use a special scanner to check if your dog or cat is microchipped. If your pet is not yet chipped, the vet can provide them with one for around $50, though this price may vary depending on location. The installation process involves inserting the microchip between your pet's shoulders. Any side effects of microchipping a dog or cat are generally rare and involve only a little soreness at the site of the injection. 

If your pet is already microchipped, it's important to update any changes to your personal information before the holidays arrive. This can be done on the microchip manufacturer's website, or a general database such as the American Animal Hospital Association's (AAHA) Microchip Registry. 

In addition to microchipping, it's a good idea to secure fences and doors before your holiday guests arrive. Designate a quiet place for nervous pets to rest away from the bustle so they have an area where they can feel safe and comfortable. If you're planning on traveling, make sure your pet is secure in their carrier or use a specialty car harness, like IC ICREATE.X Cat Transport Carrier or Mighty Paw Dog Car Safety Belt  to keep them contained. Finally, if you are leaving your pet with a sitter or at a pet day care center, be sure to provide them with all of your contact information in case of any escapes.