Microchipping
A microchip is a small implant, the same size as a grain of rice, which sits underneath the skin. It contains a unique 15-digit code which is registered on a secure national database. This secure database also holds your details so that your pet can be reunited with you if it is lost. This number can be quickly and easily found by scanning your pet with a microchip scanner. Microchips do not contain GPS and do not enable your pet to be tracked.
Reasons to microchip your pet:
- If your pet ever gets lost or stolen, you can be easily identified as their owner
- If your pet escapes and is injured, the vet can contact you immediately
- In England, Scotland and Wales, it is a legal requirement for all dogs over 8 weeks to be microchipped and registered
- From 10th June 2024, it is now a legal requirement for cats to be microchipped in England. The new law does not apply to Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
- Microchipping rabbits and other pets such as tortoises, parrots and ferrets are not a legal requirement but is strongly recommended
How is a microchip placed?
Placing a microchip is straightforward but should only ever be performed by a veterinary surgeon or a trained professional (such as a veterinary nurse). A special needle is used; this is larger than the ones used for a standard vaccine but makes placement quick, and most pets aren't bothered by it. To get your pet microchipped, please call your practice to make an appointment.
Keeping your details up to date
It is your responsibility to ensure the details on the microchip number are kept up to date. This means you must contact the database the microchip is registered to if you move house, change phone number, or rehome your pet. If you do not keep the details up to date, you could face a fine. If your pet does get lost or stolen, let the database know as most will mark this against the microchip number.
Microchipping is included with your The Healthy Pet Club membership for dogs, cats and rabbits.
Disclaimer
Please note that the content made available on this webpage is for general information purposes only. Whilst we try to ensure that at the time of writing all material is up to date and reflects industry standards, we make no representation, warranties or guarantees that the information made available is up to date, accurate or complete. Any reliance placed by yourselves is done so at your own risk.
