Trevor is about 14 weeks old and we definitely have to have a rabies shot in Texas.
The microchipping was $45. Yes, the needle was big. If you've ever seen one of those needles that is used for yarn punching, like for hook latch rugs, that what it reminded me of. It's hollow, so the microchip if put inside. Even as big as it was, I couldn't find a mark on him once it was finished. The vet said they are extremely sharp so they hardly leave any marks and because it is done so quickly.
Once the microchip was implanted, they scanned it to make sure it worked. Thank goodness it did, because I would have hated to put my poor baby through that again..
Then they gave me some paperwork with the microchip number on it and a little tag, also with the number on it. You fill in the paperwork and mail it along with $12.50 to AKC. They are the monitors over the microchip database. You're puppy does not have to have AKC papers to have this done.
My vet says it is standard practice for all shelters, pounds and vets to scan for chips if a dog is found. Then they take that number and run it through the registry and find their mommies. Like I previously said, I hope NEVER to have to use it, but accidents to happen and I certainly would hope I would get my baby back if I ever lost him.
Cyndie