Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about pet microchips and registration
Service Overview
What is Homeward Bound Pet?
An advanced recovery service dedicated to the safety and well-being of your lost pet. The system uses microchips with unique IDs registered in an online database. When found pets are scanned at veterinary clinics or shelters, the Universal Pet Microchip Lookup Tool directs finders to a 24/7 hotline that reunites them with owners.
Why should I register my pet's microchip?
One in three pets will be lost, at least temporarily, during their lifetime. Registration ensures shelters, veterinarians, and rescue organizations can access owner information directly, dramatically increasing the chances of a safe reunion.
Lost Pet Recovery
What should I do if my pet goes missing?
Begin an immediate thorough search of your neighborhood. Your pet's account page allows printing customized photo flyers and business cards for distribution to help spread the word quickly.
Fees & Enrollment
Are there annual fees?
No. Your one-time fee of $20 covers your pet for as long as they are with you. If ownership transfers, re-enrollment by the new owner requires payment again.
Does my pet need a specific microchip brand?
Pets with any brand of microchip may enroll in the Homeward Bound Pet service. Our system is compatible with all standard microchip frequencies.
What if I can't be reached when my pet is found?
Provide alternate contact information (relative, friend, or veterinarian) who will be contacted if you're unavailable when your pet is found.
Microchip Technical Details
What is a microchip?
A tiny integrated circuit, encapsulated in a biocompatible material, small enough to fit in a hypodermic needle. It provides permanent identification that cannot be lost or altered.
How does a microchip work?
The chip contains a unique number. A handheld reader activates a weak radio signal, enabling the transponder to transmit the number via electromagnetic current. The scanner displays this number, which is then used to look up the owner's contact information.
How long does a microchip last?
Once injected under the skin of your pet, the microchip becomes encased by a thin layer of protein that anchors it in place for the rest of the life of your pet. There are no batteries to replace or maintenance required.
How unique is each microchip number?
Microchips can produce 275 billion different ID numbers, ensuring each pet has a completely unique identifier that will never be duplicated.
Medical Information
What age can a pet be microchipped?
Animals of any age can be injected with a microchip. Puppies and kittens are typically identified during their initial vaccine series, often as young as 6-8 weeks.
How much does injection cost?
The average cost is around $45, with potential discounts available during routine procedures at your veterinarian's office.
Is the injection painful? Does it require sedation?
No anesthesia needed. The injection creates only a slight discomfort—most pets don't even react to it. The procedure takes just seconds and is similar to a routine vaccination.
Can pets have allergic reactions to microchips?
Microchips are inert and biocompatible. There is virtually no chance of the body developing an allergy. Millions of pets have been safely microchipped worldwide.
Special Considerations
Why not just use collar tags?
Tags may wear out or slip off, but a microchip is the only form of pet identification that is permanent, with a unique number that cannot be altered or removed. It's the most reliable way to ensure your pet can be identified if lost.
Should I microchip my indoor-only pet?
Yes! Even strictly indoor animals need microchips because it only takes one time for the mailman, gardener, meter reader, neighbor, or friend to leave the gate or door open. Indoor pets who escape are often the most frightened and hardest to catch.
What if a shelter doesn't have a scanner?
Virtually all veterinarians and shelters in the U.S. (over 50,000 nationally) are equipped to scan your pet. Universal scanners are now standard equipment at any facility that handles lost or stray animals.
Can I travel internationally with a microchipped pet?
Yes! Our ISO-compliant microchips meet international standards. For specific requirements by country, consult USDA resources regarding pet export regulations.
Still Have Questions?
Our team is here to help! Contact us anytime with your questions about microchips, registration, or pet recovery services.
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