The HomeAgain Microchip

The HomeAgain Microchip Identification System starts, of course, with the microchip itself. Manufactured for Schering-Plough Animal Health Corporation by Digital Angel, Inc., the microchips are comprised of a proprietary technology centered on the use of a passive electronic device that emits a radio frequency only when activated by the scanner.

Unique

Each HomeAgain microchip is in reality designed with the express purpose of storing and transmitting a unique alphanumeric code. This code represents your pet’s essential identification -- it is the number used by AKC-Companion Animal Recovery to determine your address and phone number, enabling your pet to return home.

Size

Obviously, one of the most significant technical features of the HomeAgain microchip is its size. About the size of a grain of rice (approximately 12mm), the microchip is so small it usually cannot be seen in your pet once it has been implanted. Thanks to this small size, the actual implantation of the microchip is quite easy. Your veterinarian simply injects it beneath the surface of the skin between the shoulder blades. The process takes only a few seconds, is virtually painless, and requires no special treatment or anesthetic.

For Life

Finally, and most importantly, the HomeAgain microchip has no batteries or internal energy source so it will last the life of your pet. After implantation, the microchip remains inactive until it is read with a scanner - the low radio frequency emitted by the scanner provides the microchip with the power necessary to transmit its unique code and positively identify the animal. Thus, the microchip itself has no internal power and will be able to transmit the ID code for the life of the animal.