Microchipping your Pooch!
- Gigi
- Jul 6, 2023
- 3 min read
You must make sure your dog is fitted with a microchip by the time it’s 8 weeks old. You can be fined up to £500 if your dog is not microchipped.
When it comes to owning a dog... there are certain compulsory actions that you cannot miss. In the United Kingdom your dog must be microchipped.
What is a microchip?
A microchip is a tiny computer chip that’s about the size of a grain of rice. It contains a unique code that matches up to your pet’s details, which are registered on an authorised database.
Does microchipping take long?
Microchipping a dog or cat is a quick and simple procedure, which takes seconds. The chip is inserted under your pet’s skin, usually around the scruff of the neck, using a needle. Once the microchip is implanted, it will last for your pet's lifetime.
How do I check if my pooch has been microchipped?
Your pet can be checked for a microchip using a handheld electronic device, called a scanner. When this is waved over their neck, the scanner will recognise the unique number held inside the chip. Keeping your pet's microchip details up to date will allow you to be contacted if your pet goes missing.
Is microchipping proof of legal ownership?
A microchip alone is not proof of legal ownership.
Under the Microchipping of Dogs (England) Regulations legislation, the person who cares for the dog and keeps them in their home is called a ‘keeper’, not an ‘owner’. The Microchipping of Cats and Dogs (England) Regulations 2023 states that a ‘keeper’ is “the person with whom the animal [cat or dog] normally resides.” This person has legal responsibility for their pet, but it does not prove legal ownership.
This means that your dog’s microchip must be registered to the ‘keeper’, who may not always be the owner. To prove ownership, you may also be asked to provide other evidence including proof of purchase, veterinary records and insurance.
The following information is directly from the United Kingdom Government website.
Who do I go for a microchip?
Your dog’s microchip must be fitted by a trained professional, for example a vet. You can also ask your vet or local council if they can microchip your dog.
When do I have to microchip my dog?
You must make sure your dog is fitted with a microchip by the time it’s 8 weeks old.
What is included in the microchip?
Your dog’s microchip is given a number, which will show up whenever your dog is scanned.
The professional who microchips your dog will also take your contact details. These details are kept alongside the microchip number on a database, so that your dog can be returned to you if it’s lost or stolen.
These details are kept alongside the microchip number on a database, so that your dog can be returned to you if it’s lost or stolen.
The UK Government highlights that you must. make sure your dog is registered on one of the following databases - they all meet government standards:
AnimalData
Animal Microchips
Animal Tracker
Chipworks
HomeAgain
Identibase
Lost Paws
MicroChip Central
MicroDogID
My Animal Trace
MyPet
National Veterinary Data Service
Pet Chip Register
Pet Database
Pet Identity UK
Petlog
PetScanner
ProtectedPet
SmartTrace
Track Your Paws
UK PETtrac MicroChip Database
We Trace Pets
Does the microchip exempt my dog from wearing a collar?
Your dog must still wear a collar and tag with your name and address when in a public place.
Will I be fined if my dog is not microchipped?
You can be fined up to £500 if your dog is not microchipped.
References
Please kindly note that all information has been obtained from the Gov.uk website in order to ensure up to date and accurate advise. Please see below for source:
Definitions regarding microchipping have been obtained by Blue Cross who is an excellent and free service provider of microchips for dogs and cats:
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