Exploring the Advantages of Microchip Pet Doors

Introduction

Most people that own cats or dogs are aware of the many advantages of having a pet door installed. However, having a standard pet door installed can present problems if you have stray animal trying to get into your home.  In this case a standard pet door would not fix the problem, and an electromagnetic pet door would be the ideal solution. In this article we will be exploring the advantages of microchip pet doors, as well as how they work and the installation process.

How Microchip Pet Doors Work

Microchip pet doors are the intelligent alternative to standard pet doors.  With a microchip pet door, the pet door works by reading either your pet’s microchip or a special tag (supplied with the pet door), to allow your pet to go through. The pet doors work by electronics, and are powered by batteries. The door has a hard flap, and when the door has read the microchip or tag, the snibs or hinges unlock to allow your pet inside.  Once your pet has gone inside, the snibs or hinges move back into place to relock the door.  This means that only your pet or pets can use the door, which provides added safety and security for your household.

Sizes

Microchip pet doors are generally only available in small or large sizes, and depending on the model, may be suitable for both cats and dogs. Following are the two sizes that are manufactured and details of two of the most reliable brands:

Small

Sure Petcare is a company based in the United Kingdom, and they manufacture two small microchip pet doors under their SureFlap range. The smaller one has a flap size of 12cm high by 14.2cm wide, and is suitable for small to regular size cats. Their larger microchip pet door is suitable for both cats and very small dogs, and the flap size for the bigger model is 17cm high by 17.8cm wide.   Both pet doors have an electronic memory that can store up to 32 pet’s data. Perfect for households with lots of pets!

Large

The PetSafe brand manufactures a large microchip pet door which has a flap size of 40.6cm high by 27.9cm wide. This would be suitable for dogs up to 55cm in shoulder height. 

Pricing

As microchip pet doors contain electronic components and are a more complex type of pet door, they are in a higher price bracket than a standard pet door.

Location for Installation

Any size of microchip pet door can be installed into a timber door or wall.  The smaller models can be installed into glass, however the large PetSafe model is not suitable for installation into glass.

Installation of a Microchip Pet Door

For installation into a timber door, you can do this yourself if you have previous carpentry skills and have the appropriate power tools. Alternatively, you could contact a pet door installer.  For installation into walls or glass, contacting a professional is definitely recommended.

Conclusion

In conclusion, microchip pet doors are a great alternative to standard pet doors if you are having problems with stray animals entering your home. The brands mentioned in this article are recommended as sturdy, reliable brands.

For those people in the Melbourne or Mornington Peninsula area of Victoria who are wanting pet door installation,  please feel free to contact us here at Affordable Pet Doors Melbourne if you’d like a quote or more information.