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The HomeAgain Microchip
The HomeAgain service starts with the microchip itself. Our microchip is centered on the use of a passive electronic device that emits a radio frequency only when activated by the scanner.
Unique
Each HomeAgain microchip is designed with the express purpose of storing and transmitting a unique alphanumeric code. This code represents your pet’s essential identification – it is the number used by HomeAgain to determine your address and phone number, enabling your pet to return home. In addition, HomeAgain is the only microchip on the market today that has an anti-migration feature to ensure that the chip stays in place.
Size
 The size of the HomeAgain microchip is one of its most significant features. About the size of a grain of rice (approximately 12mm), the microchip is so small it cannot be seen once it has been implanted. Thanks to this small size, the actual implantation of the microchip is quite easy. Your veterinarian simply injects it beneath the surface of the skin between the shoulder blades, like a routine shot. The process takes only a few seconds, is virtually painless, and requires no special treatment or anesthetic.
For life
Finally, and most importantly, the HomeAgain microchip has no batteries or internal energy source so it will last the life of your pet. After implantation, the microchip remains inactive until it is read with a scanner – the low radio frequency emitted by the scanner provides the microchip with the power necessary to transmit its unique code and positively identify the animal. Thus, the microchip itself has no internal power and will be able to transmit the ID code for the life of the animal.
Myths About Microchipping
The myth: the procedure to implant the microchip is too expensive.
The truth: while the price can vary from one veterinarian to another, implanting the microchip costs about $45. This is a one-time fee; the chip never needs maintenance or replacement. In addition, there is an annual fee to maintain access to pet recovery and database enrollment.
The myth: enrolling in the database or service is not necessary.
The truth: having your veterinarian implant the HomeAgain® microchip is the first step in pet protection. However, the microchip has no recovery benefits unless you enroll in the HomeAgain service. Your pet is only fully protected by HomeAgain when you activate your pet and provide your contact information (email and phone numbers) and other emergency contact information.
The myth: implanting the microchip will hurt my pet.
The truth: the procedure is simple, routine, and painless, and it doesn't require any anesthesia. Your pet gets an injection just under the loose skin between the shoulder blades, similar to getting vaccinated. Most animals don't react at all.
The myth: most shelters and veterinarians don't have microchip scanners, so they won't be able to identify my pet.
The truth: it's true that a microchip won't identify your pet unless he comes into contact with a microchip scanner. Virtually all veterinarians and shelters are equipped to scan your pet should he become lost.
The myth: every pet with a microchip couldn’t possibly be given a unique number. My pet's number will be duplicated.
The truth: the way technology works today, these tiny microchips can hold huge amounts of information. In fact, the microchips are designed to produce 275 billion different identification numbers. On top of that, manufacturers add unique product codes and manufacturer's codes to identify their chips. With all the possible combinations of product codes and ID numbers, there are more than enough numbers to make sure every pet has a completely unique number.
The myth: eventually, the microchip will wear out and I’ll need to have it replaced.
The truth: the chip doesn't have an internal battery or power source. In fact, most of the time it’s inactive. When the microchip reader is passed over it, the chip gets enough power from the reader to transmit the pet's ID number. Since there is no battery and no moving parts, there's nothing to wear out or replace. The microchip will last throughout your pet's lifetime.
The myth: my cat never goes outside. He doesn't need to have a microchip ID.
The truth: it's wonderful that you're keeping your pet safe inside, but a guest or a repair person could easily leave the door open, or a screen could come loose from an open window. There's a possibility that your house could be damaged in a heavy storm, flood, or other natural disaster, causing your cat to run away in fear. Pets can even be stolen – particularly birds and exotic or purebred animals. No matter how closely you watch your favorite animal friend, there's always a chance he could get out, and if he doesn't have any ID, he will be extremely hard to find.
The myth: it's not safe for my dog to have a foreign object inside his body.
The truth: veterinarians have been implanting microchips in animals for years, and the process has been proven to be very safe. The chip is made out of an inert, biocompatible substance, which means it won't cause an allergic reaction or degenerate over time. In addition, HomeAgain is the only microchip that has an anti-migration feature to ensure that the chip stays in place.
Tips for finding a lost pet
Realizing your pet is lost is an alarming and stressful discovery. If you're enrolled in HomeAgain, know that you're not alone. HomeAgain gives you access to a comprehensive pet recovery service. Most importantly, we actively help you search for your pet. The first thing we do when you report a lost pet is to alert veterinarians and shelters in the area where your pet was lost. You'll also receive assistance from our trained counselors. Should you find yourself in this situation, it's a comfort to know that a network of professionals is working to help you in your search. In the meantime, here are a few helpful tips for locating your lost pet.
Talk to your neighbors. If your pet escaped from your home, the most obvious place to begin your search would be your neighborhood. Walk around the streets surrounding your home and talk to your neighbors – even your mail carrier – leaving your phone number and a description of your pet. It may also help to show a recent color photograph.
Use your pet's favorite toy. Dogs and cats have hearing superior to ours and may be able to hear you from a great distance. If your pet has a favorite toy with a squeaker, bell, or any other noise maker, you can use it to your advantage. While you're calling out your pet's name, squeak or jingle the toy for added appeal.
Use scent to attract. Animals also have a superior sense of smell. Try placing a recently worn article of clothing somewhere outside of your house. Your pet's extraordinary nose may lead him back home.
Get some quiet time. Searching your neighborhood during quieter hours can be a great help in finding your pet. Rotate between calling your pet's name and quietly listening for any familiar sounds or replies, such as your pet's bark.
HomeAgain provides the comfort and support that you need when your pet gets lost. For access to our proactive recovery service as well as additional tips on locating a lost pet, enroll in the new HomeAgain today! |
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