A pet microchip is one of the most reliable ways to help a lost pet get home. The chip itself is small and permanent, but the contact information linked to it is not. If you move, change your phone number, or transfer ownership of a pet, the microchip record must be updated. Otherwise, a scanner may reveal a chip number that leads to outdated contact details.
Updating a pet’s microchip details is usually simple. The exact process depends on which registry holds the record, but the basic steps are the same: find the microchip number, identify the registry, provide the new information, and confirm the update. This guide explains how to do that and what to do in common situations.
What a Pet Microchip Does and Does Not Do
A pet microchip is a small device implanted under the skin. It is not a GPS tracker, and it does not store your address or phone number directly. Instead, it stores a unique identification number. When a lost pet is scanned, that number is used to look up the pet’s record in a microchip registry.
The registry record contains the owner’s contact details and information about the pet. If those details are outdated, the chip can still be read, but the person trying to help may not be able to reach you. Keeping the registry record current is what makes the microchip useful.
When You Should Update Microchip Details
Update your pet’s microchip record whenever important contact or ownership information changes. Common times to update include:
- You move to a new home or change your mailing address.
- You get a new phone number or email address.
- Your name changes.
- You add or change an alternate contact person.
- You adopt or rehome a pet and ownership changes.
- Your pet’s record contains incorrect information.
- Your pet has died, so the record can be marked accordingly.
It is best not to wait for a lost-pet emergency. Update the record as soon as the new information is available, and check it periodically to make sure it is still accurate.
Information to Gather Before You Start
Having the right details on hand makes the update faster. Before you contact the registry, gather:
- The microchip number. This is usually a long string of numbers, often 15 digits.
- The name of the registry. This may appear on adoption papers, a microchip certificate, or veterinary records.
- Your current contact information. Include your address, phone number, and email address.
- Your pet’s basic details. This may include name, species, breed, color, and date of birth.
- Proof of ownership or adoption. Some registries ask for this when ownership changes.
- Any previous correspondence. A certificate, welcome letter, or account email can help confirm the registry.
Step-by-Step: How to Update Your Pet’s Microchip Details
- Find the microchip number. Check adoption papers, veterinary records, or the microchip certificate. If you cannot find the number, ask a veterinarian to scan the pet.
- Identify the registry. Look for the registry name on your paperwork. If the chip was implanted by a shelter or veterinarian, their records may show which registry was used. Some pets are listed in more than one database, so update every registry that has a record for your pet.
- Contact the registry. Use the contact information from your certificate or the registry’s official website. Many registries let you update details through an online account, while others accept changes by phone, email, or mail.
- Provide the new information. Enter or share the microchip number, your new contact details, and any other requested information. If you are transferring ownership, follow the registry’s specific transfer process.
- Verify your identity or account. Some registries require you to log in, confirm an email address, or provide proof of ownership before making changes.
- Confirm the update. Look for a confirmation email, letter, or account message. Log back in or call the registry if you do not receive confirmation. Keep a copy of the updated record for your files.
- Update other records. Tell your veterinarian about the new contact details, and update any pet-related services that rely on your information.
Updating After a Move or Contact Change
When you move or change your phone number, update the microchip record as soon as possible. Do not rely on mail forwarding or an old email address to keep the record current. If you have multiple phone numbers, consider adding an alternate contact who does not live with you. This can help if your primary contact details are unavailable during an emergency.
Transferring Ownership to a New Owner
When a pet is adopted or rehomed, the microchip record should be transferred to the new owner. The previous owner may need to authorize the transfer, or the new owner may need to submit adoption paperwork. Both parties should keep copies of the transfer documents. After the transfer, the new owner should confirm that the registry has updated the record and that the contact details are correct.
If You Cannot Remember Which Registry Has Your Pet’s Record
Start with your adoption paperwork, veterinary records, and any microchip certificate you received. If those are unavailable, ask a veterinarian to scan the chip and check whether the clinic has a record of the registry. Some registries offer lookup tools that can help identify where a chip number is listed. If you find more than one record, update all of them so the information stays consistent.
What If the Microchip Number Is Unknown or Unreadable
If you do not have the microchip number, a veterinarian can usually scan the pet to retrieve it. If the chip cannot be read, ask the veterinarian about next steps. Without a readable number, it may be difficult to update the existing record, so a new registration or a replacement chip may be discussed with a professional.
Updating Details for a Deceased Pet
If a pet has died, contact the registry to update or close the record. This can prevent unnecessary calls or confusion if the microchip is ever scanned. The registry may ask for basic information or documentation before making the change.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Updating only one registry when the pet appears in several databases.
- Forgetting to add or update an alternate contact.
- Making a typo in a phone number or email address.
- Assuming the update went through without confirmation.
- Waiting until the pet is lost to check the record.
- Treating the microchip as a GPS tracker instead of a registry-linked ID.
Tips to Keep Microchip Details Current
- Set a yearly reminder to review your pet’s registry record.
- Update the record immediately after a move, phone change, or ownership change.
- Keep digital and paper copies of the microchip number and registry information.
- Ask your veterinarian to scan the chip at routine visits to confirm it is readable.
- Use a collar tag with current contact details as a visible backup.
Conclusion
Updating your pet’s microchip details is a small task that can make a major difference if your pet is ever lost. Gather the microchip number, identify the registry, provide your current contact information, and confirm that the change has been recorded. If your pet is listed in more than one registry, update every record and keep copies for your files.
A microchip works best when the information behind it is accurate. Reviewing your pet’s record at least once a year and after any life change helps ensure that a scan leads to the right person. For more straightforward answers to everyday questions, explore other helpful guides on the site.