Pet Microchipping Services in North Vancouver & West Vancouver
Table of Contents
- What Is Pet Microchipping?
- Why Microchipping Matters
- How Pet Microchipping Works
- The Pet Microchipping Process at North Care Animal Hospital
- Microchipping vs ID Tags
- Time & Safety
- Is Microchipping Required by Law?
- International Travel
- Why Choose North Care Animal Hospital
- Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Is Pet Microchipping?
Pet microchipping is a safe, permanent method of identifying pets using a small electronic chip, about the size of a grain of rice. It is implanted under your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. Each chip contains a unique identification number that is registered in a secure national database, helping reunite lost pets with their owners. Read more about pet microchipping on Wikipedia.
Microchip for Dogs
Pet microchipping for dogs is a reliable and permanent method of identification that significantly increases the chances of reuniting with a lost pet. At North Care Animal Hospital, we implant a small, biocompatible microchip—roughly the size of a grain of rice—beneath your dog’s skin, typically between the shoulder blades. This chip contains a unique alphanumeric ID code that is registered in a national database linked to your contact information. Unlike collars or tags, a microchip cannot fall off or be removed easily, offering lifelong protection. As a trusted veterinary clinic in North Vancouver and West Vancouver, we ensure your dog’s microchip is properly registered and verifiable using ISO-standard microchip scanners.
Microchip for Cats
Microchipping for cats is especially critical for both indoor and outdoor pets, as cats are more prone to losing collars or slipping through small openings. At our North Shore animal hospital, we use industry-certified RFID (radio-frequency identification) microchips approved by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association. The procedure is fast, minimally invasive, and does not require anesthesia. Once implanted, your cat’s microchip ID is stored in a secure online registry that can be accessed by veterinary clinics, shelters, and animal control officers across Canada and the U.S. This service not only supports responsible pet ownership but also complies with international pet travel regulations and improves recovery rates in lost pet incidents.
2. Why Microchipping Matters
Every year, thousands of pets go missing across Canada. According to the Canadian Animal Health Institute, only 10% of cats and 30% of dogs are ever reunited with their families without permanent identification. With a microchip, that return-to-owner rate increases to over 75% for dogs and over 40% for cats.
Microchipping provides:
- Permanent identification (unlike collars or tags that may fall off)
- International recognition (works in Canada, the U.S., and beyond)
- Peace of mind for pet owners
For more context, review AVMA’s guide to microchipping.
3. How Pet Microchipping Works
A microchip is not a GPS tracker. Instead, it stores a unique code. When a lost pet is found and taken to a vet or animal shelter, they scan the chip using a universal microchip scanner. The code is then matched to the pet owner’s contact info in the registry database. We recommend updating your registration every time you change your phone number, email, or address. Most providers allow lifetime registration for a one-time fee. Learn more about the microchip registry system.
4. The Pet Microchipping Process at North Care Animal Hospital
At North Care Animal Hospital, located in North Shore, North Vancouver, and West Vancouver, our licensed veterinarians offer stress-free and painless pet microchipping services. The appointment takes less than 10 minutes and does not require anesthesia.
Here’s what to expect:
- A consultation to confirm your pet’s eligibility
- Sterile implantation of the microchip (like a vaccination)
- Free registration of the microchip to your name
- Education on how to update the info in the future
We offer microchipping for:
- Dogs (all breeds)
- Cats (indoor & outdoor)
- Rabbits and small animals (upon request)
See our full veterinary services here.
5. Microchipping vs ID Tags
| Feature | Microchip | ID Tag |
|---|---|---|
| Permanence | Lifetime | Can fall off |
| Tamper-proof | Yes | No |
| Easily visible | No | Yes |
| Cost | One-time fee | Low |
| Info editable | Online database | Must replace tag |
Conclusion: A combination of both is best. Use tags for quick identification and a microchip for permanent protection.
6. Time & Safety
Time: Less than 10 minutes per pet
Safety:
- FDA-approved for animals
- No harmful effects recorded
- Injections are safe for pets of all sizes and ages
7. Is Microchipping Required by Law?
In British Columbia, microchipping is not legally required but is strongly encouraged by animal welfare groups and many municipalities. Some rescue organizations may require microchipping before adoption.
8. International Travel:
If you’re planning to travel with your pet, many countries including those in the EU require microchips for entry.
Find more about Canadian import/export pet requirements.
| Category | Importing Pets into Canada | Exporting Pets from Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Applicable Pets | Dogs, cats, ferrets | Dogs, cats, ferrets |
| Rabies Vaccination | Required for pets over 3 months old; must be current and documented | Varies by destination country; consult the country’s import requirements |
| Health Certificate | May be required depending on the country of origin and type of animal | Mandatory; issued by a licensed veterinarian and endorsed by CFIA |
| CFIA Endorsement | Not required for import | Required before departure; CFIA will not endorse certificates after the pet has left Canada |
| Microchip Identification | Not mandatory for import | Often required by destination countries; check specific requirements |
| Additional Testing | May be necessary for certain diseases based on country of origin | Depends on destination country’s regulations; plan ahead for any required tests |
| Quarantine | Not typically required; exceptions apply based on origin and animal health status | Depends on destination country’s regulations |
| Import/Export Permits | Required for certain animals and countries; check CFIA guidelines | May be required by the destination country; verify with their authorities |
| Advance Planning | Recommended to prevent delays; ensure all documentation is complete | Essential; start preparations well in advance to meet all requirements |
| Official Resources | CFIA Importing Pets | CFIA Exporting Pets |
9. Why Choose North Care Animal Hospital
North Care Animal Hospital has been a trusted name in pet healthcare for families across North Shore, North Vancouver, and West Vancouver. We combine compassion with modern technology to offer a full suite of veterinary services.
What Sets Us Apart:
- Friendly, certified veterinarians
- Fast appointments and transparent pricing
- Clean, comfortable clinic environment
- Support with registration and pet owner education
- Over 500+ local families served annually
We are a top-rated clinic on Google Maps, known for delivering personalized care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Microchipping
1. What is pet microchipping and how does it work?
Pet microchipping is a permanent identification method where a tiny microchip is implanted under your pet’s skin. Each chip contains a unique ID number linked to your contact information in a national database. When a lost pet is found, veterinarians or shelters use a scanner to retrieve the ID and contact the owner. It’s safe, fast, and effective for dogs and cats.
2. Is microchipping painful for pets?
No, microchipping is not painful. The procedure is similar to receiving a vaccine injection and takes only a few seconds. Most pets don’t react at all. At North Care Animal Hospital, we use sterile, veterinarian-approved equipment to ensure maximum comfort.
3. How much does pet microchipping cost in North Vancouver?
The cost of pet microchipping in North Vancouver typically ranges from $50 to $100, depending on whether registration is included. At North Care Animal Hospital, our price includes microchip insertion and guidance on registering your pet’s ID for lifelong protection.
4. Does a microchip have GPS tracking?
No, pet microchips do not contain GPS or real-time tracking. They use RFID technology to store a unique ID number, which can be read by a scanner. If you’re looking to track your pet’s location, a GPS collar is a better option. Microchips are for identification and reunification purposes only.
5. Is microchipping required by law in Canada?
Microchipping is not mandatory in Canada, but it is strongly recommended by veterinarians, shelters, and pet insurance companies. Some cities and travel regulations may require it. For international travel, microchipping is often a legal requirement for dogs and cats.
6. At what age should my pet be microchipped?
Pets can be microchipped as early as 6 to 8 weeks of age. The earlier the better, especially for outdoor cats or adventurous dogs. Our veterinarians in West Vancouver recommend doing it during a regular wellness visit or when your pet is spayed/neutered.
7. Can my pet’s microchip move or fail?
While it is rare, microchips can sometimes migrate slightly under the skin. However, they still function properly and can be scanned. We use ISO-standard chips recognized by all major veterinary databases to ensure reliability and compatibility.
8. How do I update my contact information on the microchip?
To update your pet’s microchip information, visit the microchip registry website associated with your pet’s chip number. Our team at North Care Animal Hospital can assist you with identifying the registry and walk you through the process during your appointment.
9. Will my personal information be publicly visible?
No, your personal details are stored securely in the microchip registry. Only authorized personnel, such as veterinarians or shelter workers, can access the information through a secure system to contact you if your pet is found.
10. Where can I get my dog or cat microchipped in North or West Vancouver?
You can book a pet microchipping appointment at North Care Animal Hospital, serving North Shore, North Vancouver, and West Vancouver. We offer quick, affordable, and stress-free microchipping for both dogs and cats. Book your appointment here.