{"id":16651,"date":"2025-06-17T10:19:00","date_gmt":"2025-06-17T07:19:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/?p=16651"},"modified":"2025-06-06T19:43:08","modified_gmt":"2025-06-06T16:43:08","slug":"animal-microchipping-why-it-is-needed-how-the-procedure-is-carried-out-and-where-to-have-it-done","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/animal-microchipping-why-it-is-needed-how-the-procedure-is-carried-out-and-where-to-have-it-done","title":{"rendered":"Animal microchipping: Why it is needed, how the procedure is carried out and where to have it done?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Losing a pet is one of the greatest fears for any responsible owner. Even the most obedient cat or the most loyal dog can be startled by a loud noise, get carried away during playtime, or simply wander off in an unfamiliar place. Unfortunately, collars with ID tags can get lost, and tattoos can fade over time, becoming unreadable. Thankfully, modern technology offers a reliable, safe, and effective method of identification that is recognised worldwide: microchipping. This tiny device could be the one thing that reunites you with your four-legged friend. In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at what a microchip is, how it works, its benefits, and how to prepare your pet for the procedure. Read all about this and much more on Tvaryny<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Microchipping isn’t just a requirement for travelling abroad; it\u2019s also for your own peace of mind and a guarantee of your pet\u2019s safety. The procedure is simple, virtually painless, and takes just a few minutes, but its importance cannot be overstated. Let’s delve into the world of modern veterinary technology and debunk the common myths surrounding this crucial topic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is a microchip and how does it work?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

First and foremost, it’s important to understand what this device is. A pet microchip<\/strong> is a tiny, sterile capsule made of biocompatible glass, no bigger than a grain of rice (approximately 12 mm long and 2 mm in diameter). Inside this capsule is a microcircuit containing a unique 15-digit code. This code is unique worldwide and is assigned to your pet for its entire life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The chip operates using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. It is crucial to note that the chip itself is a passive device: it has no internal power source, does not emit any signals, and does not track your pet’s location like a GPS tracker.<\/strong> It only activates for a few seconds when a special scanner is passed over it. The scanner generates an electromagnetic field that ‘wakes up’ the microchip, which then transmits its unique number to the scanner’s screen. A vet or rescue centre worker then enters this number into an international database to find the owner’s contact information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"A<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Why is microchipping necessary? The main advantages<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The decision to microchip your pet is an expression of care and responsibility. The benefits of this procedure go far beyond simple identification. Let’s look at the key ones:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n
  • Foolproof and lifelong identification.<\/strong> Unlike a collar or tag, a microchip cannot be lost or forged<\/strong>. It stays with the pet for its entire life, providing a reliable way to prove ownership.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Quick reunion with lost pets.<\/strong> This is the main and most obvious advantage. If your pet gets lost and ends up at a veterinary clinic, rescue centre, or with volunteers, the first thing they will do is scan for a chip. Scanning takes seconds, and as soon as the number is found on the database, they can contact you immediately. Experience shows that microchipped pets are returned home far more frequently and quickly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • A legal requirement for travelling abroad.<\/strong> If you plan to travel with your pet to countries in the European Union, the USA, Canada, Israel, and many others, a microchip is a mandatory condition for crossing the border<\/strong>. The microchipping must be done before the pet’s rabies vaccination. Without it, your pet will simply not be allowed to leave Ukraine or enter the destination country.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Proof of ownership.<\/strong> In the event of a dispute, such as the theft of a pet or a conflict over ownership, a microchip registered in your name serves as powerful legal evidence.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Participation in shows and breeding.<\/strong> For many pedigree animals participating in shows or breeding programmes, microchipping is a requirement of kennel and feline clubs. This ensures the accurate identification of the animal and its lineage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Helping to control the stray animal population.<\/strong> Widespread microchipping helps to identify animals that have been abandoned and hold irresponsible owners accountable. This is an important step towards a humane solution to the problem of stray animals in our cities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

    The Microchipping Procedure: A Step-by-Step Guide<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    Many owners are anxious about the idea of ‘implanting’ a foreign object into their beloved pet. In reality, the procedure is incredibly simple, quick, and safe. It is similar to a routine subcutaneous injection and does not require an anaesthetic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \"A<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
      \n
    1. Consultation and Health Check.<\/strong> The vet will examine your pet to ensure it is clinically healthy and ready for the procedure. They will also answer any questions you may have.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    2. Verifying the Microchip.<\/strong> Before implantation, the vet takes the sterile package containing the microchip and scans it to ensure the number on the scanner matches the number on the accompanying stickers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    3. Preparing the Injection Site.<\/strong> According to international standards, the microchip is inserted under the skin in the scruff of the neck (between the shoulder blades). This area is the least sensitive for the animal. The fur in this area is not clipped; it is simply cleaned with an antiseptic.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    4. Implanting the Microchip.<\/strong> The chip is housed inside a special single-use syringe-like applicator. The vet administers a quick injection, and the capsule remains under the skin. The sensation for the pet is comparable to a standard vaccination jab.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    5. Scanning Again.<\/strong> Immediately after the injection, the vet scans the area again to confirm that the chip has been successfully implanted and is readable.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    6. Database Registration.<\/strong> This is the most crucial step!<\/strong> A microchip on its own is just a number. Without being registered to an electronic database, it is completely useless. The vet will place a sticker with the barcode and chip number into your pet’s passport and on the registration form. As the owner, you must provide your contact details (full name, address, phone number, email) and information about your pet (name, breed, date of birth). Ensure the vet registers the chip on a national and, if possible, international database (e.g., Animal ID, Pet-ID, EuroPetNet).<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

      Microchipping and Ukrainian Law<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

      As of 2025, compulsory microchipping for all domestic pets has not yet been implemented at a national level in Ukraine, but the process is regulated by a number of legal acts. According to the Law of Ukraine “On Veterinary Medicine,” identified and registered animals are subject to recording. Microchipping is mandatory in the following cases:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        \n
      1. When crossing the border.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      2. For participation in shows.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      3. For breeding purposes, to officially register offspring.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

        Furthermore, many cities in Ukraine (including Kyiv, Lviv, Kharkiv, and Odesa) have adopted local regulations for keeping domestic animals that either recommend or mandate registration and microchipping. Ukraine’s path towards European integration involves the gradual harmonisation of its legislation with EU norms, where microchipping is the standard. Therefore, it is expected that this requirement will become compulsory for all cat and dog owners in the coming years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Myths and Reality: Debunking Pet Microchipping Misconceptions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

        Numerous myths surround the procedure. Let’s tackle the most popular ones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        \"A<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

        Myth 1: The procedure is very painful for the pet.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        Reality:<\/strong> As we’ve already mentioned, the procedure is similar to a routine injection. The applicator needle is slightly thicker than a vaccination needle, but the process itself takes only a second. Most animals react calmly and barely even notice it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Myth 2: The microchip can get ‘lost’ inside the pet’s body or cause an allergic reaction.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        Reality:<\/strong> The capsule is made from biocompatible glass, which is not rejected by the body and does not cause allergic reactions. Within a few weeks of implantation, the capsule becomes encased in connective tissue, which holds it securely in place. Cases of migration (movement) of the chip are extremely rare (less than 0.01%) and usually insignificant (by a few centimetres). This does not affect its functionality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Myth 3: The chip emits harmful signals or includes a GPS tracker.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        Reality:<\/strong> This is one of the most common and damaging myths. A microchip is a passive RFID transponder<\/strong>. It contains no battery, antenna, or transmitter. It emits absolutely nothing and cannot track your pet’s movements. It only activates for a fraction of a second when it is in the field of a scanner. It is completely safe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Myth 4: Microchipping is very expensive.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        Reality:<\/strong> The cost of the procedure is a one-time investment in your pet’s safety. Considering the chip lasts for the pet’s entire life, the sum is entirely reasonable. Think about the potential costs of searching for a lost pet (posters, rewards) and, most importantly, the emotional distress. Against this backdrop, the cost of microchipping seems negligible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Where can you get your pet microchipped and how much does it cost?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

        The microchipping procedure can be carried out at most veterinary practices. This service is usually provided by:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          \n
        • State veterinary clinics.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Private veterinary clinics and centres.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Kennel and feline clubs<\/strong> (which often organise mass microchipping events for their members).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

          The cost of the procedure in Ukraine in 2025 averages between 400 and 800 Ukrainian hryvnias<\/strong>. The price depends on the region, the prestige of the clinic, and the microchip manufacturer. The cost usually includes the microchip itself in a sterile applicator, the implantation procedure, and the registration of the pet on a national database. It is essential to confirm before the procedure whether registration is included in the price, as this is a key component.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Comparison Table: Microchipping vs. Other Identification Methods<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
          Feature<\/th>Microchip<\/th>Collar with Tag<\/th>Tattoo<\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
          Reliability<\/strong><\/td>High. Cannot be lost.<\/td>Low. Can be lost, break, or be removed.<\/td>Medium. Can fade over time and become unreadable.<\/td><\/tr>
          Durability<\/strong><\/td>Lifelong.<\/td>Temporary, requires replacement.<\/td>Long-lasting, but quality degrades.<\/td><\/tr>
          Information Capacity<\/strong><\/td>Contains a unique code linked to a large amount of data on a database (owner’s details, pet’s details, vaccination records).<\/td>Limited (phone number, address).<\/td>Limited (usually a pedigree number).<\/td><\/tr>
          Use for Travel<\/strong><\/td>Mandatory<\/strong> international standard.<\/td>Not accepted as official identification.<\/td>Accepted until 2011, but no longer an EU standard.<\/td><\/tr>
          Risk of Loss\/Damage<\/strong><\/td>Minimal.<\/td>Very high.<\/td>Medium (fading, skin stretching).<\/td><\/tr>
          Painfulness of Procedure<\/strong><\/td>Minimal (like an injection).<\/td>None.<\/td>High (requires an anaesthetic).<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

          Conclusion: Your Peace of Mind and Your Pet’s Safety<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

          In summary, it can be said with confidence that microchipping is the gold standard for modern pet identification<\/strong>. It is the simplest, safest, and most reliable way to protect your four-legged friend from the risk of being permanently lost. It is an investment in your peace of mind and your pet’s future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Don’t delay this crucial step. Contact your vet, get a consultation, and give your pet an “electronic passport” that could one day save its life and bring it back to your loving family. Care is shown through actions, and microchipping is one of the most important actions a responsible owner can take.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

          Losing a pet is one of the greatest fears for any responsible owner. Even the most obedient cat or the most loyal dog can be startled by a loud noise, get\u2026<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":16551,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[4423,4436,4443],"tags":[6965,6963],"class_list":["post-16651","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-cats-health-en","category-dogs-health-en","category-articles-laws-en","tag-animal-microchipping","tag-dog-microchip"],"views":60,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16651","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=16651"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16651\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":16652,"href":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16651\/revisions\/16652"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/16551"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=16651"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=16651"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=16651"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}