We had Sprocket chipped on a regular vet visit, it looked like a fat needle that the chip was on the end, they rubbed a little stuff on the site (between the shoulder blades) so it wouldn't hurt, and bam, it was done. Sprocket fussed at it a little, but it was never red or swollen, I don't think it was even sore, just an irritation, like something new, the first day or two. The chip comes with a registration to your vets office or where ever you bought it, then you go on line and make it "yours", your dog name, address, you know specifics. Mine cost $14. to reg online and its and international chip, not that I would be taking Sprocket overseas but, it's what they are putting out now, so when we travel it's good anywhere. One more piece of security. But it really was no big deal to get it done, other than my anxiety over it. Hope this helps you.