Have you microchipped your pets?

It is now a legal requirement for all dogs in England, Scotland and Wales to be microchipped and have their details registered on an authorised database, such as Petlog.

The benefits of microchipping

If your dog is lost or stolen, there's a much greater chance that you will be reunited if he carries a microchip – unlike a tag on a collar, a microchip can't fall off or be removed. Once implanted, register your pet online with your name, address, and your pet's details, on an approved database such as Petlog. Petlog offers a reporting service, so if your pet has become lost, you can register him or her as missing immediately.

An alert will then be sent out to animal professionals (such as veterinary practices and animal shelters) within a 30 mile radius of where your pet went missing. Very reassuring!

 

When to microchip

If you're getting a dog from a rehoming centre, he or she is likely to be microchipped already. Dogs Trust, which has campaigned for this law to come into effect, does this procedure for free for all of its dogs. 

 

Alternatively, if you're getting a puppy, speak to your vet, who will often be happy to microchip your dog for free at the same time as neutering or inoculation. Alternatively, check out Chip My Dog to discover where free microchipping events are happening near you!

Other animals

This law is currently only compulsory for dogs, but it's highly recommended that you microchip your cats, horses, rabbits – any animal, in fact, who is large enough to carry one – to ensure they are kept safe. Ask your vet for more information.

Remember ...

... a microchip is only effective if you keep your details up to date. Ensure that you complete your registration fully and accurately. If you move house, change your name, or if your pet's appearance changes, be sure to update your online profile.

 

For more information on microchipping, and a comprehensive list of FAQs, visit the Dogs Trust website.