Microchipping

A while back, a friend with a macaw was subjected to that horrible experience of losing her bird.  To shorten the story, the macaw accidentally flew away and though she knew where her macaw probably was, it really all came down to being unable to get her bird back because there was no sure way to identify her to the authorities.

It really got me to thinking, my gosh, what would I do if one of my birds got away, or worse yet was directly stolen from me or my home?  Sure, Darby has a band, but those are often and easily removed, like Harley who no longer has her leg band.  I decided I could no longer take that additional chance.  Yes, wings are clipped and birds are in cages during travel, but if there is one thing I have learned after hearing story after story of birds who have gotten lost, it's the fact that you just never know what could happen.

In keeping with that, we have recently had our birds microchipped and registered and we encourage other bird owners to do the same.  Previously only used on dogs and cats, vets now insert a small device, about the size of a piece of rice, into the breast area of birds, for about $30.  Registration with the AKC (American Kennel Club) is a once-only fee of $12.50.  The procedure happens in only minutes and does not require any anesthesia.  Once the microchip is in, vets or shelters who acquire the bird can just wave an identifying wand over the site of the chip, and a unique ID number is displayed.  A simple telephone call will link that ID number with your bird and help the two of you get reunited.

Here are links to help you learn more about the microchip itself and the registration process.  Just click on the graphics.  

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