In the UK, microchipping is now mandatory for all dogs, with owners legally obligated to keep their contact information updated. In England, it's now a legal requirement to microchip pet cats by 20 weeks old. This applies to all pet cats, including those kept indoors. Only unowned cats, such as feral or community cats, are exempt. Microchipping your pets is strongly recommended to increase the likelihood of their safe return if they become lost. This regulation aims to reduce the number of stray animals, promote responsible pet ownership, and expedite the process of reuniting lost pets with their owners in emergencies. It's crucial to ensure your contact information in the microchip database is accurate and up-to-date, as outdated details can significantly hinder the safe return of your pet.
What is Microchipping?
Microchipping is a permanent form of identification for pets, involving a chip being injected under the skin of the scruff. A microchip is a very small chip placed under the skin of your pet. Each microchip has a unique number can be read by portable scanners at most vets, local authorities and rescue homes. Sedation is not necessary for the implantation of the microchip as this procedure causes minimal discomfort.
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Why Should I Have My Pet Microchipped?
While microchipping is legally mandated for all dogs and puppies in the UK, with a requirement for microchipping before eight weeks of age and prior to ownership transfer, it is strongly recommended for all pets to. Failure to comply with the dog and cat microchipping law can result in a significant fine of up to £500. Furthermore, microchipping is essential for pets travelling internationally, along with the necessary Animal Health Certificate.
If your pet gets lost, the microchip system allows the vet or shelter to contact you as quickly as possible, once your pet is found.
Pets travelling abroad are required to be microchipped as part of the Pet Travel Scheme (Pet Health Certificate).
Microchipping Your Pet: What to Expect at Your Appointment
The microchipping procedure requires no sedation, as it causes minimal discomfort and can be performed during a routine consultation. If you’re unsure whether your pet already has a microchip, our team can easily scan your pet to confirm.
When microchipping is performed at Leadon Vale Vets, you’ll need to complete a registration form, and our team will submit your details to the national database. This registration is valid for your pet’s lifetime, and the cost of the procedure includes the registration fee.
All microchips we use meet International Standards (ISO), ensuring they can be read by scanners abroad for pets travelling under the Pet Passport scheme.
For further details or to schedule an appointment, contact our Veterinary Clinic. Our friendly team is happy to assist you.
Book a pet microchipping appointment today!
How Can I Be Traced if My Pet is Found?
The details you assign to your pet's microchip are stored on a national database. Once the chip number has been identified with a scanner, a simple phone call can reunite you with your pet 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
It is important to update any changes in personal contact details.
For more information, please speak to one of our friendly team members at our practice by calling the branch most local to your home address.
