A microchip is a permanent form of identification for dogs and cats. The microchip itself is a small chip (size of a grain of rice) that is placed under the skin between the shoulder blades. It cannot be removed, unlike a tag or collar. When the scanner is held over the chip, a number is translated that identifies the pet back to the owner. All of the police stations and animal shelters scan all incoming pets for microchip identification. Your pet can be microchipped at any time, just ask at your next visit. Also, if your pet has already been microchipped, please let us know so we can list the microchip number in your pet's permanent record at Randall Oaks Animal Hospital.