In the world of animal care, few tools are as quietly powerful as the animal microchip scanner. Whether you’re running a veterinary clinic, animal shelter, or rescue organization, these scanners play a crucial role in reuniting lost pets with their families.
What Does an Animal Microchip Scanner Do?
A microchip scanner is a device used to detect and read microchips implanted under the skin. These microchips contain a unique ID number that links to the pet owner’s contact information stored in a registry. When scanned, that ID number appears on the scanner’s display, enabling shelters or veterinary staff to contact the owner quickly.
Microchips can vary in frequency—such as 125 kHz, 128 kHz, or 134.2 kHz—so having a scanner that can read multiple chip types (often called a “universal” scanner) is a must for many organizations.
Why Microchip Scanners Are Essential
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), microchipped pets are significantly more likely to be returned to their owners than those without chips. But the presence of a microchip alone isn’t enough—organizations must have the right technology to read them.
Without an effective animal microchip scanner, that implanted ID remains inaccessible, potentially delaying or even preventing reunification. This makes choosing a reliable scanner a top priority for any animal care facility. This makes choosing a reliable scanner a top priority for any animal care facility. In fast-paced environments like shelters, clinics, or rescue operations, the ability to quickly and accurately scan an animal for a chip can mean the difference between days of uncertainty and a same-day reunion. Investing in dependable scanning equipment helps reduce overcrowding in shelters, improves outcomes for animals, and provides peace of mind for staff and pet owners alike.
Animal Microchip Scanners at ACES
At Animal Care Equipment & Services (ACES), professionals can find high-performance animal microchip scanners designed to me
et the demands of shelters, clinics, and field operations:
- Compact Max Scanner
This lightweight, water-resistant scanner is ideal for clinics, rescues, and transport teams that need a portableyet powerful tool. It reads a wide range of microchip types—including FDX-B (ISO), FDX-A/FECAVA, Trovan, and Avid encrypted chips—making it a versatile choice in diverse environments.
Scanfindr Xtend Max
Designed for animal control officers and field teams, this universal stick scanner offers extended reach and a bite-resistant shaft for safer scanning of feral, aggressive, or fearful animals.
These scanners are just two examples of how ACES continues to support the mission of humane, efficient care with equipment that makes a difference. From intake to transport, ACES offers a full range of thoughtfully designed products to meet the evolving needs of animal professionals.
Tips for Accurate Scanning
To ensure you’re getting the most out of your animal microchip scanner, it’s important to follow best practices:
- Start scanning between the shoulder blades, where most chips are implanted
- Move slowly and methodically—no faster than 6 inches per second
- Scan the full body if no chip is detected initially, as microchips can migrate
- Make scanning part of your intake routine for all animals
- Remind pet owners to keep their contact information up to date in the microchip registry
Investing in Better Animal Care
Animal microchip scanners are one of the most important tools in modern animal care. They bridge the gap between a lost pet and their family, saving time and reducing the stress on both animals and humans.
At Animal Care Equipment & Services (ACES), every product is designed with the needs of animal professionals in mind—from intake and handling to housing and transport. With a deep commitment to safety, efficiency, and humane practices, ACES provides the dependable tools organizations rely on to care for animals with confidence and compassion.