Microchipping Your Pet

What is pet microchipping?

A pet microchip is a tiny computer chip about the size of a grain of rice. It contains a unique code, used as a permanent form of ID and security for your pet.

Once your pet’s been microchipped, you’ll receive confirmation from a registered database containing an ID or reference number, plus your pet’s microchip number.

If your pet goes missing and is later found, it simply needs to be scanned by a device a vet or animal shelter will have. This will recognise the microchip’s unique code and identify your pet.

Is it law that pets should be microchipped?

By law if you own a dog or cat, you must get them microchipped though the rules are slightly different for each.

Dogs must be microchipped by the time they’re eight weeks old. For cats in England, you need to get them microchipped by 20 weeks old. This is the case even if you have an indoor cat who never leaves your home.

The microchip will contain your details and be registered on a compliant database. If you don’t have your pet microchipped, you may have to pay fine of up to £500.

For other animals like rabbits, it’s not compulsory but it is recommended - rabbits are master escapologists and can disappear from your garden! If they go missing, having them microchipped can help you be reunited with them.

Benefits of pet microchipping

Unlike collars or tags which can break, microchips offer a permanent way to identify your pet. Even if they lose their collar, a vet will always be able to tell who they belong to with a quick scan. It makes it far easier to reunite them with you if they go missing and are brought to a clinic or shelter.

If your pet is found injured and needs medical attention a microchip means you can be identified and contacted quickly to give permission for treatment. It also helps solve issues of ownership which can be really important in cases of pet theft or disputed ownership.

Unlike tags or collars microchips are low maintenance and don’t need to be replaced. And if you’re planning on travelling abroad with your pet it can make life much easier. All  countries require microchipping before you can bring your pet with you.

Pet microchipping is a safe, affordable way to keep your pet safe and give you peace of mind.

Who can microchip your pet?

Pet microchipping is usually carried out by your vet or veterinary nurse. They are trained to safely insert the microchip under your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades.

What is the microchipping process?

Your vet will make sure your pet is in good health and they will scan them to check they’re not already microchipped, particularly if they’re an older pet.

Once they’re ready they’ll inject the microchip it under skin, much like they would with a vaccination or regular injection. Once it’s in they’ll scan the chip to make sure it’s detectable and add your details to the database.

No anaesthetic is needed and your pet will only experience minor discomfort like they would with a jab. You might be asked to monitor the site for signs of swelling or irritation but complications are rare and your pet is unlikely to experience any problems. 

Whose responsibility is it to microchip your pet?

As a responsible pet owner it’s down to you to make sure your cat or dog is microchipped. For other animals like rabbits it’s your choice. Microchipping can add another level of security and dramatically increase the chances of them being returned to you if they get lost. On the other hand, unless you have a dog or cat (in England), you don’t have to have it done if you prefer not to. 

Maintaining your pet’s microchip 

Pet microchipping is very low maintenance and the chip itself requires no direct maintenance as it’s designed to last your pet’s lifetime. Make sure you keep your contact information up to date if you change address or phone number and ask your vet to scan it on any regular appointments to check it’s still working. While it’s rare, chips can occasionally migrate from the injection site or stop functioning.

Even if your pet is microchipped it’s important for them to wear external ID too. This offers a visible, easy way to identify them if they’re found and can’t be scanned quickly.

What to expect if your pet gets lost 

We hope this never happens to you but if it does a microchip can get them back to you quickly.

As soon as you realise they’re gone start searching locally and alert your neighbours. It’s a good idea to put a message with a recent photo on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram so other people in your area can keep an eye out. Try putting up posters or giving out flyers too.

Contact local vets and animal shelters and provide a description of your pet. Let them know if they’re microchipped. Report your pet missing to the microchip database and make sure your contact details are up to date so they can contact you quickly if your pet is found. 

Most importantly, be patient and get the emotional support you need from friends and family. Lots of pets are reunited with their owners quickly and safely. Sometimes though, it can take a little longer. By staying proactive and using all the available resources you can increase your chances of getting them home safely.