Microchip - yes or no? - YorkieTalk.com Forums

MaryAnn · 08-07-2011, 07:17 AM

After reading thru the neutering topics, we have decided to wait until our little guy is 7 months old, but we still have not decided whether to microchip or not - would appreciate your thoughts (and thank you!).

Maximo · 08-07-2011, 07:20 AM

Both of my boys have one. It is not a guarantee for anything, but it could be helpful in identifying a dog and returning a lost dog. The health risks are arguably minimal. I don't see any downside.

RachelandSadie · 08-07-2011, 07:23 AM

defin YES! Microchipping is the single easiest way to get a dog back to an owner when it's lost. tags fall off but a microchip is in there for good. most vets and shelters will not take in new dogs without checking microchips first and if your dog were ever stolen it's the best way to prove that the dog is yours. it's like giving them something inside almost like providing DNA to a child so they are always your child. They don't feel them, it's easy to put in and both mine were done awake and didn't even yelp. great thing to protect your little ones.

Valenie · 08-07-2011, 07:23 AM

I also am back and forth on this I would like some feedback too!

Nancy1999 · 08-07-2011, 07:26 AM

Seven months is the age the vet thought was good to neuter Joey, he wanted to wait until enough adult teeth were in so he could pull the remaining baby teeth. Some vets don't know this, but Yorkies usually have one or two teeth they can't lose on their own, and the cost to pull them while they are already out is minimal, 5-15 dollars a tooth, depending on the vet. However, if you wait, you have to pay for anesthesia again, and the real cost is the anxiety over anesthesia. I think getting a chip done at the same time makes sense, especially if you live in a highly populated area. Millions of dogs each year are returned because they've been chipped. It has given me great peace of mind.

Teresa Ford · 08-07-2011, 07:33 AM

Yes do micro-chip. It may help a lost dog be returned. My Vets office scans all new patients and notes micro-chip numbers on their chart. If a dog is lost or stolen you can post pictures and say this dog is micro-chipped. You can also give that chip number to vets, rescues, dog pounds, ect if the dog is lost or stolen. It is good too, if you do genetic or DNA studies at any point. It is 100% ID by the Vet, that this is the dog being tested.

megansmomma · 08-07-2011, 08:00 AM

Microchip and collar with tags at ALL TIMES! I just cannot stress this point enough. If you look on YT the dogs that have been lost and never found were not chipped and were not wearing their collars/tags when they went missing.

Recently, I was in contact with a woman in another state looking to surrender a yorkie. It is a very long and messed up story but the short version is this:

She caught this little girl in a trap because it running loose and she was worried it would be killed by coyotes (she lived in the country). There was no chip and no collar. She was not willing to place ads or give out her own phone number to look for her owners. It was obvious she was loved and well taken care of. She had the little girl for less than 36 hours and wanted to surrender her to Yorkie Rescue because she didn't want to bother any longer. I offered to help her and placed ads, called animal control, police etc but she was 2 states away. After 4 days she GAVE HER AWAY! There was nothing I could do to stop it either and I'm still bothers me.

lizzieg · 08-07-2011, 08:00 AM

I think it's a preference thing and it depends on where you live/if you are always outside on a leash with your dog/etc. I had intentions on microchipping Khloe when she was spayed, and my vet told me that the needle that they use to microchip was big and may cause her more pain than the spay surgery. However, it does serve as permanent identification. But go with your gut instinct; you know what is best for your situation.

Now that I live in NC, I feel safe that no one will take Khloe. She stays inside all the time unless I am outside with her, and my elderly neighbors are good about keeping a watch on the house when we aren't here (best security system ever). I had a Westie that was an indoor/outdoor dog, and he was microchipped. He was stolen from our backyard, and I haven't seem him for 4 years. ): I miss my sweet Max everyday, and I pray that vets are simply not scanning him. I worry all the time that poor little Max hasn't gotten vet care since, or if he is well and safe. I believe someone stole him to stud him out. Breaks my heart.

Quote:

Originally Posted by MaryAnn

After reading thru the neutering topics, we have decided to wait until our little guy is 7 months old, but we still have not decided whether to microchip or not - would appreciate your thoughts (and thank you!).

Nancy1999 · 08-07-2011, 08:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by megansmomma

Microchip and collar with tags at ALL TIMES! I just cannot stress this point enough. If you look on YT the dogs that have been lost and never found were not chipped and were not wearing their collars/tags when they went missing.

Recently, I was in contact with a woman in another state looking to surrender a yorkie. It is a very long and messed up story but the short version is this:

She caught this little girl in a trap because it running loose and she was worried it would be killed by coyotes (she lived in the country). There was no chip and no collar. She was not willing to place ads or give out her own phone number to look for her owners. It was obvious she was loved and well taken care of. She had the little girl for less than 36 hours and wanted to surrender her to Yorkie Rescue because she didn't want to bother any longer. I offered to help her and placed ads, called animal control, police etc but she was 2 states away. After 4 days she GAVE HER AWAY! There was nothing I could do to stop it either and I'm still bothers me.

Oh wow, that kills me, I just can't imagine something like that happening to Joey. I agree with you about the tags too, especially when I had kids and no control over the opening and closing of doors and gates. Before everyone yells at me, the collars are just for tags, not for walking, please use a harness for that.

shodanusmc · 08-07-2011, 09:10 AM

Both of the Spice boys got a chip when they were neutered! Caper also had a baby tooth pulled. They are back to nornal no time at all. Get the Chip!

CouversMom · 08-07-2011, 09:23 AM

YES YES YES! Micro-chip. There is no reason not to. It is another way to get your baby back, and whether you like it or not... it is possible for your dog to get out or be stolen. Peoples houses have been broken into and dogs have been stolen (search Find Baxter and Cooper on FB). If they have a micro-chip, it is more likely that eventually that dog will be scanned and returned to its owner.

I believe I have done everything in my power to ensure my dogs will never be stolen or escape. I built two dog-proof fences that they cannot escape from, put a security system in my home, have a security camera that watches our house, I never leave my dogs outside alone without me watching, and never ever leave them in the car alone.

It would be almost impossible for them to be stolen or lost, but I still have them wear tags at all times AND they are micro-chipped. I want them returned no matter what, and I am willing to do anything to ensure that. Please micro-chip your baby.

Thor Kent · 08-07-2011, 10:16 AM

Yes microchip --- I got Thor done at 4 months, not a guarantee but if he ever gets lost it's just another thing on our favor!
Also just had Thor neutered and 4 teeth pulled he will be 8 months on the 25th of this month. He did GREAT - a little sleepy that afternoon but the next morning he was his normal self again.

yorkiemini · 08-07-2011, 10:23 AM

I had Cali chipped at 9 months - she acted like nothing had happened. The results may be iffy (someone tried to steal her once and they would not have had the chip read, I'm sure) but if there is any chance it would bring her back to me if something did happen I would do it for sure.

I just wish we would all ask our vets if they read chips when they get a new patient -- this could help someone get their pup back if they were stolen etc. Seems like many vets don't bother to do it.

lexipoo · 08-07-2011, 10:29 AM

Yes, Yes, Yes micro-chip! I think it is a great idea and any chance of getting our little furbabies back should something happen can only be a good thing! Lexi had hers done when she was spayed...no problem at all and we can't feel it either. I know it is no guarantee but I find comfort in knowing we have done all we can

jp4m2 · 08-07-2011, 10:50 AM

Since you asked for any opinions I thought I would give an alternate view so you can ponder all the info.......

I'm most likely in the minority here, but no I don't feel comfortable inserting a chip in any of my boys. I just don't feel anyone has done any long term studies as of yet to see if the benefits outweigh the risks. Until then I'll rely on the old fashioned way, tags, and I'm also very careful when they're outside. They're always in a fenced yard and never out alone.

Here are some links to browse through......

chipmenot.com-homepage

Are Micro-Chips safe and what is your alternative? | The Pet Whisperer?

HomeAgain Pet Microchip Implicated In Cancer

08-07-2011, 07:17 AM	#1
MaryAnn Donating Senior Yorkie Talker Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: USA Posts: 39	Microchip - yes or no? After reading thru the neutering topics, we have decided to wait until our little guy is 7 months old, but we still have not decided whether to microchip or not - would appreciate your thoughts (and thank you!).

08-07-2011, 07:20 AM	#2
Maximo ♥ Maximo and Teddy Donating Member Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Northern Virginia Posts: 25,041	Both of my boys have one. It is not a guarantee for anything, but it could be helpful in identifying a dog and returning a lost dog. The health risks are arguably minimal. I don't see any downside. __________________ Kristin, Max and Teddy

08-07-2011, 07:23 AM	#4
Valenie Owned by Bella & Tibbs Donating Member Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Loyall KY USA Posts: 2,252 Blog Entries: 15	I also am back and forth on this I would like some feedback too! __________________ XOXO Valenie LOVING Mommy to Tibbers Bella and my son Adam!

08-07-2011, 07:26 AM	#5
Nancy1999 I ♥ Joey & Ralphie! Donating Member Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Arizona Posts: 25,396 Blog Entries: 2	Seven months is the age the vet thought was good to neuter Joey, he wanted to wait until enough adult teeth were in so he could pull the remaining baby teeth. Some vets don't know this, but Yorkies usually have one or two teeth they can't lose on their own, and the cost to pull them while they are already out is minimal, 5-15 dollars a tooth, depending on the vet. However, if you wait, you have to pay for anesthesia again, and the real cost is the anxiety over anesthesia. I think getting a chip done at the same time makes sense, especially if you live in a highly populated area. Millions of dogs each year are returned because they've been chipped. It has given me great peace of mind. __________________ NancyJoey Proud members of the CrAzYcLuB and YAP! ** Just Say No to Puppymills – Join YAP! Yorkshire Terrier Club of America – Breeder Referrals

08-07-2011, 08:00 AM	#7
megansmomma Donating YT 10K Club Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: S. W. Suburbs of Chicago, IL Posts: 12,235	Microchip and collar with tags at ALL TIMES! I just cannot stress this point enough. If you look on YT the dogs that have been lost and never found were not chipped and were not wearing their collars/tags when they went missing. Recently, I was in contact with a woman in another state looking to surrender a yorkie. It is a very long and messed up story but the short version is this: She caught this little girl in a trap because it running loose and she was worried it would be killed by coyotes (she lived in the country). There was no chip and no collar. She was not willing to place ads or give out her own phone number to look for her owners. It was obvious she was loved and well taken care of. She had the little girl for less than 36 hours and wanted to surrender her to Yorkie Rescue because she didn't want to bother any longer. I offered to help her and placed ads, called animal control, police etc but she was 2 states away. After 4 days she GAVE HER AWAY! There was nothing I could do to stop it either and I'm still bothers me. __________________ “Never argue with a fool, onlookers may not be able to tell the difference.” Mark Twain

08-07-2011, 07:23 AM	#3
RachelandSadie No Longer a Member Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Kansas City, MO Posts: 5,748	defin YES! Microchipping is the single easiest way to get a dog back to an owner when it's lost. tags fall off but a microchip is in there for good. most vets and shelters will not take in new dogs without checking microchips first and if your dog were ever stolen it's the best way to prove that the dog is yours. it's like giving them something inside almost like providing DNA to a child so they are always your child. They don't feel them, it's easy to put in and both mine were done awake and didn't even yelp. great thing to protect your little ones.

08-07-2011, 07:33 AM	#6
Teresa Ford Therapy Yorkies Work Donating Member Join Date: May 2011 Location: Central, Florida Posts: 3,863	Yes do micro-chip. It may help a lost dog be returned. My Vets office scans all new patients and notes micro-chip numbers on their chart. If a dog is lost or stolen you can post pictures and say this dog is micro-chipped. You can also give that chip number to vets, rescues, dog pounds, ect if the dog is lost or stolen. It is good too, if you do genetic or DNA studies at any point. It is 100% ID by the Vet, that this is the dog being tested.

08-07-2011, 09:10 AM	#10
shodanusmc BANNED! Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: Illinois Posts: 4,603	Both of the Spice boys got a chip when they were neutered! Caper also had a baby tooth pulled. They are back to nornal no time at all. Get the Chip!

08-07-2011, 09:23 AM	#11
CouversMom and Khloe Mae's too! Donating Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Eastern Washington Posts: 14,732	YES YES YES! Micro-chip. There is no reason not to. It is another way to get your baby back, and whether you like it or not... it is possible for your dog to get out or be stolen. Peoples houses have been broken into and dogs have been stolen (search Find Baxter and Cooper on FB). If they have a micro-chip, it is more likely that eventually that dog will be scanned and returned to its owner. I believe I have done everything in my power to ensure my dogs will never be stolen or escape. I built two dog-proof fences that they cannot escape from, put a security system in my home, have a security camera that watches our house, I never leave my dogs outside alone without me watching, and never ever leave them in the car alone. It would be almost impossible for them to be stolen or lost, but I still have them wear tags at all times AND they are micro-chipped. I want them returned no matter what, and I am willing to do anything to ensure that. Please micro-chip your baby. __________________ Michelle- mommy to Couver and Khloe Mae! http://yorkiehavenrescue.com/

08-07-2011, 10:16 AM	#12
Thor Kent Senior Yorkie Talker Join Date: Apr 2011 Location: Rockport Texas Posts: 122	Yes microchip --- I got Thor done at 4 months, not a guarantee but if he ever gets lost it's just another thing on our favor! Also just had Thor neutered and 4 teeth pulled he will be 8 months on the 25th of this month. He did GREAT - a little sleepy that afternoon but the next morning he was his normal self again. __________________ Nydia -- Thor's mommy

08-07-2011, 10:23 AM	#13
yorkiemini Donating YT 500 Club Member Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: USA Posts: 4,285	I had Cali chipped at 9 months - she acted like nothing had happened. The results may be iffy (someone tried to steal her once and they would not have had the chip read, I'm sure) but if there is any chance it would bring her back to me if something did happen I would do it for sure. I just wish we would all ask our vets if they read chips when they get a new patient -- this could help someone get their pup back if they were stolen etc. Seems like many vets don't bother to do it. __________________ . Cali , and Cali's keeper and staff, Jay No, not a "mini" Yorkie - She loves to motor in her Mini Cooper car

08-07-2011, 10:29 AM	#14
lexipoo Donating YT 1000 Club Member Join Date: May 2009 Location: Florida Posts: 1,892	Yes, Yes, Yes micro-chip! I think it is a great idea and any chance of getting our little furbabies back should something happen can only be a good thing! Lexi had hers done when she was spayed...no problem at all and we can't feel it either. I know it is no guarantee but I find comfort in knowing we have done all we can __________________ _____________________________ HUGS ~ Cheryl & Lexi

08-07-2011, 10:50 AM	#15
jp4m2 Love my Boys Donating Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: w/ my boys Posts: 5,056	Since you asked for any opinions I thought I would give an alternate view so you can ponder all the info....... I'm most likely in the minority here, but no I don't feel comfortable inserting a chip in any of my boys. I just don't feel anyone has done any long term studies as of yet to see if the benefits outweigh the risks. Until then I'll rely on the old fashioned way, tags, and I'm also very careful when they're outside. They're always in a fenced yard and never out alone. Here are some links to browse through...... chipmenot.com-homepage Are Micro-Chips safe and what is your alternative? \| The Pet Whisperer? HomeAgain Pet Microchip Implicated In Cancer __________________ B.J.mom to : Jake J.J. Jack & Joey, momma misses you..... The joy found in the companionship of a pet is a blessing not given to everyone. The two most powerful words when we’re in struggle: me too..