> I'm guessing that the data you extract from the RFID chip is some ID number that you need access to a database to do anything with? And that database is close

> I'm guessing that the data you extract from the RFID chip is some ID number that you need access to a database to do anything with? And that database is closed and only available for vets and similar? Mostly correct: Many pet ID microchips also have a temperature sensor for some reason, which can be read out along with the fixed chip ID. But you're correct that the chip itself doesn't hold any owner information. There are dozens of different microchip ID databases; some of them are linked to specific chip manufacturers, others are general-use. Generally speaking, the registries don't give out owner contact information; instead, they'll contact the owner themselves when notified that a lost animal has been found. The AAHA has a tool that'll query most of the major databases at: https://www.aaha.org/for-veterinary-professionals/microchip-search/ https://www.aaha.org/for-veterinary-professionals/microchip-...