Enhance Microchip Pet Scanner Range

I'm working on a project to try and help locate lost and stolen pets. I want to start by increasing the range of a pet microchip scanner to be able to read the microchip number from further away. The current range is only 8cm. I believe this can be done by increasing the size of the antenna and adding a stronger power source.

Ideal skills and experience for this job include:
- Knowledge of electronics and RFID
- Knowledge of pet microchip technology