Embedded ID chip in pup, is it worth getting?

[BLACKJACK]

Been hearing lots about embedding ID chips in dogs for ID in case they get lost. Does it really help? How many vets and humane societies actually have the scanners to check lost dogs for the chips? Anybody have any success stories of dogs being found thru the chips? How about the location of the chip, is it in the same spot on every dog? Could a scoundrel find the chip and cut it out? How many of you have actually done it and what does it cost?

Thanks for your answers! Just trying to find out if this is hype of if it helps.

[Bryce]

Quite a few vets have the scanner. Most importantly, all the research labs that take in dogs are required to have it. Not sure if Humane Society has it. Very simple procedure and I believe the cost is in the $50 range. Placed in the same general area between the shoulder blades. Only about the size of a grain of rice so I would think it would be very difficult to cut out.

[Bushwacker]

I asked my vet about it in Nov. when I took my pup in for its first exam and shots. He said that all humane societies and all vets have the scanners. It is some deal out of Europe that they all use the same chips and scanners and the chips work for 20+ years. He said they are a great idea and in his 7 years of practice every single one that he installed still works. He said it is a large syringe that is put into the dog, but the hole heals quickly. $47 is his price. I am going to do it before this spring.

[LABS4ME]

BlackJack...I think it is another tool that would hopefully help your dog find it's way home. Though no one method is 100%, all added up I'd think your dog will come home. Collar with your phone #, micro-chip, and possibly a tattoo (I may add the word micro-chip to the tatto in the future) on inner thigh and most people wouldn't think about keeping your buddy. If you lose a dog, let the sherriff and vets in that area know about it and even if a local brings the dog in acting like it's theirs (but no records for the animal) I'm sure most vets would run the scanner over the back to see if it's been chipped. I offer it to the people who are buying my pups and can have it done before they pick the pup up. I definitley feel it's worth the $50.00 +/- to have it done.

Good Luck! Ken

[bigdog]

Have a chip in my 5 year old and getting one for my new puppy next week. Cold Spring/St. Joe vet said about $40 and another $12 for a registration fee. Cheap insurance in case he ever gets away.