Pet Microchipping in Arlington, VA

A microchip is one of the simplest, most reliable ways to protect your pet. At Cherrydale Veterinary Clinic in Arlington, VA, microchipping is a quick procedure that gives your dog or cat permanent identification — offering peace of mind and the best chance of a happy reunion if they ever go missing.

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A Simple Step With Lasting Peace of Mind

Microchipping is quick, safe, and done right here during a routine visit. Our veterinarian places a tiny microchip — about the size of a grain of rice — just beneath your pet’s skin between the shoulder blades. There’s no battery and nothing to charge, so it lasts your pet’s entire life.

Quick & Simple

A brief injection between the shoulder blades, about as simple as a routine vaccination, with no surgery or downtime.

Permanent ID

With no internal battery, the microchip lasts your pet’s whole life and can’t be lost or removed like a collar tag.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Thinking about microchipping your dog or cat? Here are answers to what Arlington pet owners ask us most about how microchips work and why registration matters.

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How does a pet microchip work?

A microchip is a tiny, permanent ID placed beneath your pet's skin between the shoulder blades. It has no battery — when a shelter or veterinarian passes a scanner over it, a low radio frequency powers the chip to transmit your pet's unique ID number, which is used to look up your contact information and reunite you with your pet.
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Does microchipping hurt my pet?

Not much at all. The microchip is placed with a quick injection, similar to a routine vaccination, and most pets barely notice. There's no surgery or recovery time, and it can often be done during a regular wellness visit.
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Do I need to register the microchip?

Yes — this step is essential. A microchip only works if it's registered with your current contact information. Once your pet is chipped, be sure to register the chip and keep your details up to date, so you can be reached right away if your pet is ever found.
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Why Microchipping Matters

Collars and tags can slip off or fade, but a microchip stays with your pet for life. If your dog or cat ever gets lost and is brought to a shelter or veterinary clinic, a quick scan reveals the unique ID that links back to you. It’s a small, one-time step that dramatically improves the odds of bringing a lost pet home safely.

Microchipping and Registration

A microchip only works when it’s registered and kept up to date.

Getting your pet microchipped is the first step — registering that chip is what makes it work. Registration links your pet’s unique ID to your contact information, so you can be reached quickly if they’re ever found. Our team is happy to walk you through the process and answer any questions.
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Register Your Chip

Your pet’s HomeAgain microchip must be registered for it to work. After chipping, register with HomeAgain and keep your contact details current so you’re always reachable.

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Update as Needed

Moved or changed your number? Update your registration so your information stays accurate over time.

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