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Is a Microchip Enough to Bring Your Lost Pet Home?

-      40% of pet owners have got it wrong with Myth 5!

As pet parents, keeping our furry friends safe is a top priority, and microchipping plays a big role in ensuring they're quickly reunited with us if they ever get lost. But, just like with any tech, there’s a lot of confusion about how microchips work. Let’s clear things up by tackling the five biggest myths about microchipping—so you can feel confident about this small but mighty tool for your pet’s safety!

Myth 1: Microchips are GPS Trackers

Fact: Microchips are a permanent form of identification when registered. They are not tracking devices.

One of the most prevalent misconceptions is that microchips work like GPS trackers. In reality, microchips serve as permanent identification, providing a unique code linked to your contact information, which is stored in a secure database such as Petkey. Although they don't provide real-time tracking of your pet's location, these devices significantly improve the likelihood of a reunion if your lost pet is found and scanned with a microchip scanner by a vet, animal shelter, or other professional body.

Myth 2: Microchipping is Painful for Pets

Fact: Minimal Discomfort during Implantation

Some pet owners worry that microchipping is a painful procedure for their furry friends. In truth, the process is relatively quick and causes minimal discomfort, similar to a routine vaccination. A microchip is around the size of a grain of rice; it’s very small. Veterinary professionals use a sterile needle to implant the tiny chip under the pet's skin, usually between the shoulder blades. Most pets barely notice it; the benefits far outweigh the momentary discomfort.

Myth 3: Microchip Information Can be Accessed by Anyone

Fact: Microchip Information is Secure and Accessible to the Right Person at the Right Time

Concerns about privacy and unauthorized access to microchip information are unfounded. Databases like Petkey are highly secure, and the information can only be accessed by authorized personnel at organizations such as vet practices, animal shelters, local authorities, or members we have pre-vetted. This ensures your pet’s safety and privacy. Your privacy is in your hands, if your information can be seen when your pet’s finder scans your pet’s microchip. Your rules. Your way.

Myth 4: Microchips Replace the Need for Collars and Tags

Fact: Microchips Complement but Don't Replace Traditional Identification

While microchips provide a permanent and tamper-proof form of identification, visible engraved tags with your contact information make it easier for everyday people to assist in a lost pet's return.

Most states require dogs to wear a collar with specific tags, though exact rules vary by state. Requirements could include, but are not limited to:

Owner Information: A tag with the owner’s name and contact details.

Rabies Vaccination: Proof of up-to-date vaccination, often mandated by law.

License: A tag showing the dog is registered with the local government or animal control.

Check your state and local regulations to ensure your dog meets identification and vaccination requirements.

Myth 5: Pets Are Automatically Registered to a Database When Microchipped

Fact: Microchips Need to Be Registered by the Pet Owner

Many pet owners assume that having their pet implanted with a microchip by the vet means it is automatically registered in an AAHA-approved database like ours. However, registration is a separate step that ensures your contact information is linked to the microchip, making it essential to complete for your pet’s safety. Without registration, the chip is deemed ineffective, making it extremely difficult to reunite lost pets. Learn more here.

Debunking these microchip myths is crucial for pet owners to embrace this technology confidently. Microchipping and registration are safe and effective ways to protect your pet in case they get lost. By understanding the facts, you can contribute to your pet's safety and increase the likelihood of a happy reunion should they ever go astray. It's a small investment for a lifetime of peace of mind.

Register your pet’s microchip with Petkey today.

#petkey_posts #petkey #pets #myths

Headline statistic source: AVMA

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#TGIF - Thank God I’m Found!

Happy #TGIF, Thank God I'm Found! Rocky was found by a Good Samaritan who was able to catch him and take him to be checked for a microchip. He was later reunited with his family! ❤️

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Are Tail Wags Always Happy?

When a dog wags his tail, what does that mean to you? To most dog lovers, this means the dog is happy. But, that’s not always the case.

There are many different variations of tail wagging and each tail wag means something different.

Earlier in the blog, we talked about body language. A dog’s tail is part of how he communicates. For example, a puppy who is wagging her tail may be letting her mother know she is hungry and to come closer.

Tails to Tell Tales

As humans, of course we use our words to talk. That’s our language. Although there are many different variations of human language, we all speak in ‘words.’ 

Dogs don’t speak our language. Our dog can understand our language to an extent and learn a wide range of our vocabulary, but that is our dog understanding us, just as it is our job to understand their language.

Your dog’s primary means of communication is not through voice; it is through body.

What Does a Wagging Tail Really Mean?

Before we can just dive into informing you what each type of tail wag means, you must understand what your dog’s natural tail position is. What’s her neutral position? Usually, dogs have their tail relaxed toward the floor when they’re in a neutral state of mind. When your dog is relaxing, pay close attention to what her body language looks like.

Now, where your dog’s tail is positioned can be one of any of the following:

Diversion: Your dog may be attempting to communicate some type of agreement with another dog if her tail suddenly stops wagging and she freezes in her tracks. This body language is common when your dog encounters someone (or another dog) she does not know.

Aggression: When your dog’s tail moves from a relaxed state to an arched position (AKA vertical), this is a sign your dog is displaying aggressive behavior. Take a look around, what is she displaying aggression toward and why?

Submission: If your dog is being submissive (AKA showing she’s not a threat), her tail will likely be tucked between her legs. In this position, she may instinctively urinate (don’t be mad).

Curiousity: We’re sure you have seen your dog’s tail ‘light up’ when she hears or sees something she’s curious and excited about. Generally, the tail is in a horizontal position in these cases. Perhaps she’s excited about a new toy or going for a ride.

Happiness: Finally, the tail also does indicate happiness. A tail wag could simply mean your dog is happy.

There is also new research out there which suggests positive feelings within a dog are associated with the right side. For example, if your dog is about to receive a treat or snack of some sort, their tail will likely move from right to left.

On the other hand, negative feelings are typically connected with the left side. When your dog is feeling upset, does her tail move from left to right?

You know your dog the best. Observation is key. Just as we are unique in our ways, our dogs are as well and each carry a different set of behavior traits. Learn how your individual dog communicates how he feels.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings and Triggers

Make sure you are aware of your surroundings, of any triggers, and the situation you are in when reading your dog’s body language. The tail is only one factor in your dog’s language, but it is certainly a great start when you’re learning about your dog’s behavior.

Remember, your dog may not be exactly the same as others. You can study and read for hours, but the real research comes from observation.

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Give Your Pet a Job!

Putting Your Pet to Work

Cats and dogs are genetically wired to spend time on activities that increase their likelihood of survival. They still have those instincts today. The opportunity to play. The opportunity to socialize. The opportunity to eat. The opportunity to explore.

Food is the main necessities of life, so we’ll focus on this one. Each species is programmed with a method to acquire food. Generally… hunting.

Finding food requires both mental and physical exercises. They spend their time and their energy on locating and hunting down their meal.

Enriching their Environment

In order to provide our pet (cat or dog) with a stimulating environment, this is a need we can assist them in meeting. We want them to have time to relax and sleep of course, but we also want them to have time to get their ‘frustrations’ out.

DIY Food Puzzles

We have included a video with a few different do-it-yourself dog food puzzles you can create quickly. Pick one and see what your dog thinks. If she loves it, great. If she isn’t a huge fan, try another! And, most importantly, have fun!

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Are You Prepared for Disaster?

It’s hurricane and tornado season (depending on where you are) with each emergency situation requiring special attention. Regardless of which type of disaster whether tornado, hurricane, flood, etc., measures should be taken prior to the event occurring to keep our pets safe. We have a few tips to share with you today to help you prepare.

The Rescue Alert Sticker

There are many organizations who will send you a rescue alert sticker so others will know there are pets in your home. To grab a free rescue pack from the ASPCA click here. Or, you can find one at your local Walmart. The sticker often includes the types of pets you have, the number of pets you have, and their names. If there is any specific medication they should take, this should also be included in print if able.

If you do evacuate, make sure you write EVACUATE on the sticker or over the sticker so rescue workers aren’t searching for your pets through the rubble should the disaster be serious.

It’s Dangerous for Them Too

If the sitaution is dangerous for you, it’s dangerous for your pets, too. Don’t wait until last minute to figure out what you’re going to do. Have a plan in place. If you aren’t able to bring your pet with you, where can your pet be kept in case of emergency?

Consider where you’d be staying should an emergency occur. For example, if you’re going to Nashville, Tennessee, should there be an evacuation, create a list of hotels/motels who accept pets.

If you can’t find one that accepts pets, is a local family member able to care for them for you while you’re vacating?

The Emergency Kit

This is one of the most important ‘preparedness’ tips we can give to you. You’ll be happy you packed up an emergency kit should an emergency happen.

Don’t pack for only one day. Pack for several weeks. Better to be safe than sorry. Make sure your dog’s microchip information is up-to-date, pack collars with extra ID tags, and make copies of their vaccination records.

Make several of these emergency kits. Put one in each of your vehicles and keep one in the house. Just to be general, here are some items we recommend packing: pet first-aid kit, guidebook outlining canine/feline care/first aid, dry cat and/or dog food to last a minimum of two weeks, disposable litter boxes, feeding dishes, water bowls, disinfectant, and photographs of each one of your pets (multiple photos if possible).

Get Started

We recommend you get started with these tips today. As we said earlier, it’s better to be safe than sorry. 

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Top Common ‘No-no’s’ for Children with Dogs

Within every relationship, regardless of type, there are unspoken rules that allow us to understand what is appropriate and acceptable.

The relationship you share (and your family shares) with your family dog is similar to this. There are certain boundaries that should not be passed and you’ll get to know those boundaries the more you bond with your dog. 

When children are involved, they may not quite understand what those boundaries are. In an effort to keep both your child and your dog safe, you must teach your children what a proper and acceptable human-dog relationship looks like. 

The first rule, and perhaps the most critical, is for your children to learn to treat your family dog with love and respect. 

If your child isn’t treating your dog with respect, remind him or her that, like us, dogs have feelings, too. 

Remind children:

Absolutely no sitting or stepping on your family dog

No pulling, yanking, or poking the family dog. 

Stay away from the food dish 

Stay away from his or her toys until you are 100% certain your family dog is not territorial or protective with them.

Children will be children. And, they learn by repetition. You may have to remind your child several times before he or she understands what you’re expecting.

Teaching Responsibility

Adopting a family dog is an excellent way to assist your child in learning about responsibility. Providing fresh water and feeding at the appropriate times could boost your child’s confidence and increase the bond he/she shares with your dog.

This also provides you with the perfect opportunity to explain your dog depends fully on your family to care for him. Of course, he will care for your family, too. But, in different ways.

Don’t Hurt my Body Being Too Rough

Most dogs adore children and enjoy having them around to play and love on. It’s important to teach your children where the boundaries are here, though. Your dog is not a couch to sit on or an object to push. The following tips should be followed: 

Please do not:

Sit on her

Lie on him

Climb on her

Pull his tail

Pull on her ears

Bounce on her

Step on him

An easy way to explain this is the following:

“Would you like to be treated like that?” Generally, the answer is no and the behavior stops. 

Respect my “Safe Place”

Dogs generally have a ‘safe place’ where he or she is able to escape when feeling overwhelmed. Be sure your child (or you) do not interrupt her safe space. 

Your dog may also go visit her safe space if she’s feeling sleepy, wants to play on her own, or if she has anxiety. Just like us, sometimes dogs need a break too. 

While She’s Eating 

Allow your dog to eat in peace without little hands getting in her bowl. You can teach a dog to be perfectly fine with this, but eating is a pleasurable experience for your dog and they generally would like to be left alone while they’re chowing down their meal. 

To protect both your dog and your child, your child should not do any of the following:

No hands near food or food dish while eating

No touching while eating

Don’t put your face next to his while he’s eating

Summing it Up

Parents should sit down with their children and explain the rules listed above. This could prevent any sort of aggression in addition to increasing the bond your dog shares with your family.

Children also lead by example. They will watch how you’re treating your dog and follow what you do. Be sure you’re setting a good example of love and respect.

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Hunting with Your Dog

There’s no question that dogs are man’s best friend. Not only are they our best friends, they are loyal companions, guardians, and protectors. Plus, guess what else they enjoy? Hunting.

 There are many hunters who choose to involve their dog in their hunting adventures. Hunting provides your dog with mental and physical stimulation necessary to stay happy and healthy. Plus, it’s an awesome way to improve the bond you share.

 Which Dog Breeds Hunt?

 There are two main categories of hunting dogs; hounds and gun dogs. The hound dogs are good for pursuing game like rabbits and deer. The gun dogs are most commonly associated with locating grouse, pheasants, and/or ducks who are incredibly camouflaged in the wilderness.

 The hunting hounds literally bring the hunter to their prey. Their noses are sensational (like many other dogs) and they’re able to detect/ track scent quickly. They’re also loud enough for the hunter to be alerted when the prey is found. If a hound gets lost, they also often know to howl so the hunter is able to locate them.

 The running hounds flush out game and pursue the game to bring the prey to the hunter. They are able to maneuver rabbits and deer in a certain direction to bring them within shooting distance of the hunter.

 Gun dogs don’t track prey, flush prey, or maneuver prey. Instead, they sit by their owner until the hunter has made his or her shot. They will then run over and fetch the game for the hunter whether in water or on land.

 What’s it Take to Be a Hunting Dog?

All hunting dogs must be well-trained, have good stamina/endurance, be physically fit, and healthy enough to go on such adventures.

 We have a few tips for those of you who are interested in learning more about the hunting sport.

 Tips for Hunting with Your Dog

Enjoy puppyhood with your dog. Your puppy must learn to trust and respect you from an early age. If you spend a significant amount of time with your puppy, you’ll also be able to determine your pup’s strengths and weaknesses.

Take walks through the woods. Taking walks will help your dog understand the different sights, smells, and sounds surrounding her.

Don’t jump straight into ‘let’s go hunt!’ Instead, be certain to teach basic obedience skills first. Commands like “sit, stay, and come” are critical.

Make sure both you and your dog are physically fit. Hunting may not sound intense, but once you get out there you’ll thank yourself for getting into shape first.

Ticks and other parasites are common in the woods and other hunting areas. Be sure your dog has flea, tick, and heartworm medication prior to beginning your adventures.

Don’t forget a first aid kit for you and your dog!

 Finally, have fun with this. This sport isn’t for everyone, but if you’re a hunting enthusiast, this could be the perfect activity for you and your dog to do together.

P.S.- If your dog isn’t already microchipped, this is certainly worth looking into just in case he were to get lost on your adventure. Better safe than sorry for sure.

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Meeko is home!

Happy #TGIF, Thank God I'm Found! After Meeko's alert went out, he was found near by by a neighbor who recognized him from his lost pet poster. The owners were contacted and he was home shortly after!

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Happy #TGIF!

Happy #TGIF, Thank God I'm Found! After Ben's alert went out, he was found by a local animal hospital who contacted Petkey after scanning his chip. We contacted the owners and he was home shortly after!

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#TGIF!

Happy #TGIF, Thank God I'm Found! A day after Dyce's alert went out, we received a call from local animal control that they had found him. We were able to contact his owner minutes later and he is now home safe!

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Happy #TGIF!

Happy #TGIF, Thank God I'm Found! Nova was found and taken to an animal shelter where her chip was scanned. We were able to contact the owners and she was home shortly after!❤️

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Andre is HOME!

Happy #TGIF, Thank God I'm Found! Andre's owners wrote us "Andre is home! I put out flyers letting everyone know he's microchipped and so very much wanted. Thank you Petkey and Petkey community!!"

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Happy Friday!

Happy #TGIF, Thank God I'm Found! Remus was found by a neighbor who was able to contact his owner by the phone number on his Petkey tag! We are so happy you are home!

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Happy New Year from PetKey!

Happy New Year from all of us here at PetKey! 

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The 5 Most Affectionate Kitties in the World

If you’re searching for a cat, there’s a high chance you’re searching for one who is affectionate and ready to be loved at any time. There are those cat lovers who would rather a cat be more on the independent side, but if you’re searching for a loving kitty, this is a must-read.

Just as with dogs, every cat is unique and even cats within the same breed may have varied temperaments. But, we have done our best to put together a list for kitties to look into.

Cat Breed 1: Birman

·        Long-haired

·        Blue eyes

·        Silky smooth

·        Share their love with humans and other pets (even the family dog)

Click here for the full breed profile for the Birman Cat.

Cat Breed 2: Burmese

·        Loves to snuggle

·        Loves to play

·        Athletic

·        Sable-colored

Click here for a full breed profile for the Burmese Cat

Cat Breed 3: Cornish Rex

·        Attention hogs

·        Can never get enough love

·        Commonly used as therapy cats

Click here for a full breed profile for the Cornish Rex.

Cat Breed 4: Persian

·        Lap lover

·        Relaxed

·        Long coat

·        Cute, smushed faces

Click here for a full breed profile for the Persian Cat.

Cat Breed 5: Ragdoll

·        Blue eyes

·        Love to be held as long as you like

·        Extremely tolerant

·        Excellent family cats

Click here for a full breed profile for the Ragdoll Cat.

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Happy #TGIF

Happy #TGIF, Thank God I'm Found! Sasha's owners wrote us "Someone contacted us from our pet poster and said they saw her in the area, so I went there and after a little searching I was able to find her!" ❤️