Learn how to find your pet’s chip number, run a search, and register it in your name.
Not sure if your pet’s chip is registered? Dont delay! It will take just a few minutes to complete this important step.
1) Find the chip number
The chip number should be on any paperwork that came with the acquisition of your pet. If you adopted from a shelter, purchased from a breeder, or got them from another individual, you should have received paperwork with medical and other information. If your pet is chipped, the number should be on this paperwork. If it isn’t, or you’re not sure if the pet is chipped, you can get them scanned at any veterinarian or shelter (be sure to call before bringing them in). Even better, if you know someone who does rescue or lost pet recovery, they may have a scanner that they can bring to you. This is especially helpful in the case of cats who often don’t travel well.
2) Check registration
There are online tools which enable you to quickly check if your pet’s chip is registered. In the United States, the most popular site is PetMicrochipLookup.org. Simply type your pet’s chip number in the box and click on Search. Next you will see a screen showing if the chip is registered, with which company, and on what date. Contact info for the registries will also be displayed, or the contact info for the manufacturer if the chip has never been registered. See live demo in the video above.
3) Register the chip
Most registrations can be completed online in minutes. This process may take longer if there are complications; for example, if the pet is still registered to a previous owner and a transfer is required. The directions for registration or transfer should be on each registry’s website. I recommend that you first update the owner info on the manufacturer’s website, for example Home Again or Pet Link. Typically, there will be a button to click to register a microchip. From there, you will enter the chip number and the registry will do a search to see if it is already in the system. If not, you will be directed to a form where you can enter all of your contact info. Be sure to add an emergency contact you trust who can be reached quickly in your absence. Next, register the chip with Free Pet Chip Registry. This registry is totally free and easy to complete online.
That’s it! For more info on the hows and whys of microchipping check out How do pet microchips work? and Which pet microchip registry is the best?
