Why Your Pet’s Microchip Won’t Save Them Until You Do This

Think your pet’s microchip is keeping them safe? It might not be.
A microchip isn’t a GPS, it doesn’t “work automatically,” and one common mistake makes it basically useless when a lost pet is found.

In this episode, Amy Castro talks with Dr. Matt Goetz, DVM, MBA from Merck Animal Health, the company behind HomeAgain microchips, about what most pet parents misunderstand about microchipping, and the simple steps that actually make it work when it matters.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
 • Why collars and tags still matter, even if your pet is microchipped
 • The most common reason microchips fail, and how to fix it fast
 • A quick checklist to make sure your pet can be identified and returned

SHOUTOUTS IN THIS EPISODE:
HomeAgain Pet Recovery
AAHA Microchip Registry Lookup

P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk in this episode. That was our original name. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place.

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Each week, get practical pet parenting advice and expert help for behavior issues, rising pet costs, vet visits, training, and everyday life with dogs and cats.

From puppy biting and cat aggression to separation anxiety, emergency vet decisions, and saving money on pet care, this show helps you cut through the noise and find real solutions.

No fluff, no guilt, just practical help so you can enjoy your pets and your life again.

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©Ⓟ 2026 Amy Castro