0n 6 April 2016 all dogs in the UK must be microchipped by law. Microchipping is the best way of making sure that a lost or stolen dog can be reunited with its owner.
Microchipping: The Facts
Here are the essential facts:
Microchipping? What’s that?
Microchipping a pet is simple and quick. It will give you and your dog the best chance of being reunited if it is lost or stolen.
The same size as a grain of rice a microchip is made of indestructible glass that’s compatible with living tissue. It is implanted under the skin, usually on the back of the neck, with a special needle and syringe by a trained microchip implanter. It does not require anaesthetic and should be no more painful than a routine vaccination.
Each microchip has a unique code that can be attached to your details. This is registered and should be kept up-to-date if your address changes. NB If your details are not kept updated your dog will not be considered microchipped and you face the risk of a heavy fine.
Why microchipping is a good idea
Thousands of pets are lost or stolen every year. Many are never reunited with their owners.
Along with the collars and tags required by law a microchip provides your pet with a permanent method of identification that cannot fall off.
If your pet is found a vet or animal professional can scan it to reveal the microchip’s 15-digit number and the database with which they’re registered.
Where can I get my pet microchipped?
You can search for a local microchip implanter online but your vet can microchip your dog or cat. Petlog, with which Celebaret Pets is registered, is one of the largest databases for microchipped pets.
The new microchipping legislation:
- All dogs must be microchipped and registered on one of the authorised commercial databases by the age of eight weeks
- Breeders must microchip a dog before it is purchased. Always check when you buy and ensure the database is updated with your details as soon as possible
- You must make sure your contact details are up-to-date on the database with which your pet is registered.
- If your dog is not microchipped or registered after 6thApril, you will be served with a 21-day notice to make this happen. Failure to do so could result in a fine of up to £500
You can register your pet with a number of UK microchip databases. Here are a few of them:
