In this step-by-step video, Revival Animal Health’s Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Marty Greer, demonstrates the proper way to microchip a dog. Learn the best practices for microchip placement and why registering the chip in a central database is critical for recovering a lost pet. For questions about dog microchips or microchipping supplies, contact our team at 800.786.4751.

Dog Microchipping Made Easy: Expert Instructions for Safe Implanting

Microchipping is an essential part of responsible pet ownership, providing permanent identification to help reunite lost pets with their families. Follow these detailed instructions, including expert tips for proper microchip placement.

Step 1: Locate the Shoulder Blades

Begin by identifying your dog’s shoulder blades. Gently massage the area between them to feel the three layers of tissue:

1. Skin – the outer layer.

2. Subcutaneous tissue – the layer just beneath the skin where movement occurs.

3. Trapezius muscle – the muscle beneath the subcutaneous tissue.

Important: The microchip is not implanted into the muscle. Instead, it rests in the deep subcutaneous tissue on top of the trapezius muscle. This placement helps the chip anchor securely and minimizes migration away from the standard site.

Step 2: Scan for an Existing Microchip

Before implanting a new chip, always scan the area several times to ensure no microchip is already present. This should become a routine part of every microchipping procedure.

Step 3: Prepare the Syringe and Implant Site

• Keep the syringe ready to use without pulling back the plunger.

• Remove the protective needle cover by pulling straight off, not twisting.

• Clean the implant site thoroughly with alcohol, Betadine, or another antiseptic.

Step 4: Create a Skin Tent

Gently pull the skin upward to form a small “tent” at the implant site. This creates space for the microchip to be placed correctly.

Tip for Mini™ Microchips such as the BuddyID® ISO Microchips: Mini needles are much smaller and penetrate easily. Avoid applying excessive pressure, as this could cause the needle to pass through both skin layers.

Step 5: Insert and Place the Microchip

1. Hold the needle with the bevel facing up.

2. Insert it into the base of the skin tent until the hub contacts the skin.

3. Angle the syringe slightly (30–45 degrees) so the needle rests on the trapezius muscle.

Depress the plunger slowly and completely until you hear and feel the Click Finish™*, ensuring the chip is released.

*Click Finish™ Tip: This unique feature on BuddyID® and ProID® Microchips provides audio and tactile confirmation that the chip has been implanted correctly.

Step 6: Withdraw the Needle and Close the Site

Once the chip is implanted:

• Apply gentle pressure to the site.

• Twist the syringe slightly to ensure the needle clears the chip before removal.

• Withdraw the needle and massage the area to close the injection site.

Shop Microchips and Scanners

If you have a microchip scanner it’s important to scan everything before you start. Some scanners will not scan all chips. So you want one that will scan all chips such as the Pocket Hero™ ISO Scanner. After injecting your pet’s microchip, don’t forget to register the chip and record the information on your pet’s feline or canine health records. If you need help choosing the right microchip and scanner for your animals, call us at 800.786.4751.