How does microchipping work?
Originally designed for use in livestock and wildlife, microchipping has rapidly gained popularity as a means of identification of dogs + cats. Each microchip is programmed with a unique code number and emits a signal on a specific radio frequency. A portable scanner held closely over the animal’s shoulders will read the number. The Toronto Humane Society works with a company that operates the database and recovery system, which is a vital component of microchipping technology. When a stray comes into the shelter, the first thing the staff does is scan the animal. If the stray is microchipped, the special number is read and phoned into the operators. A check of the database will reveal vital information such as the name, address and the medical history of the animal. This information is recorded on a registration form when the microchip is implanted and must be updated if the owner changes his or her address. Every cat and dog adopted from The Toronto Humane Society is implanted with a
