What is Dog Microchipping?
Microchipping for dogs is a permanent ID system, which involves a chip, no bigger than a grain of rice, being implanted under the skin of your dog’s scruff.
The implanted microchip has a unique number, that can be read by a portable scanner, which vets, local authorities and rescue homes have access to when a dog is found. A microchip's contact details mean a pet can be returned to the right owner promptly. Once your dog has been scanned and identified by its microchip, a phone call can reunite you with your pet.
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Microchipping for Dogs and Other Pets
Microchipping is not only for dogs but for cats, ferrets, rabbits, snakes, parrots, tortoises and horses and comes highly recommended by the team at Leadon Vale Veterinary Centre and Hospital. It is a legal requirement for all dogs to be microchipped and vaccinated by 8 weeks of age before ownership is transferred from the breeder. Cats are also to be legally microchipped no later than 20 weeks of age. You can be fined up to £500.00 if your pet is not microchipped. It is also worth noting that if you are planning on taking your pet abroad, they must be microchipped and have a pet passport.
The Dog Microchipping Procedure
The microchipping procedure causes minimal discomfort to your dog and can be carried out during a routine consultation. Sedation is not necessary for the implantation. If you aren't certain if your dog has been microchipped, a nurse or vet can easily scan your dog to check for a working chip. This is a normal part of our procedure, so rest assured that your dog is in the hands of experts.
When you bring your dog to be microchipped, you will be asked to complete a registration form, from which your details are then submitted to a national database by a Leadon Vale Veterinary Centre. All of our microchips conform to the ISO (International Standard), which means when used in the Pet Passport Scheme, all microchips can be recognised when scanned abroad.
Microchipping Your New Puppy
Bringing a new puppy into your home is an exciting time, and understanding their microchip is a crucial part of being a responsible pet parent. In the UK, the law places specific requirements on breeders regarding microchipping puppies:
The Breeder's Responsibility:
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Mandatory Microchipping: By law, breeders are required to microchip puppies before they reach eight weeks of age, which is typically before they leave for their new homes.
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First Registered Keeper: The breeder must be registered as the first keeper of the puppy on an authorised microchip database. Failing to do so by the eight-week mark is a breach of the law.
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Essential Paperwork: Reputable breeders will provide you with the correct microchip documentation. This paperwork is vital for you to formally transfer the "keepership" of your puppy into your name.
Your Responsibility as the New Owner:
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Update Contact Details Immediately: When your puppy arrives home, you must transfer the microchip registration into your name and update it with your current contact details. This ensures your information is linked to your puppy's unique microchip number on the national database.
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Why it Matters: An un-updated microchip is practically useless if your puppy ever goes missing. Thousands of lost dogs each year cannot be reunited with their families because their microchip information is outdated. Keeping these details current is not only a legal requirement but also the most effective way to safeguard your new companion.
For more information on dog microchipping, please contact our friendly, professional team.
At Leadon Vale Veterinary Centre, we offer a pet health plan, which is an affordable payment plan for your dog to start benefiting from our services and treatments. Microchipping is one of the many services covered in our plans. For more information, see the button below.
Book a Dog Microchipping Appointment
Dog Microchipping FAQs
How and where is the microchip implanted?
The microchip is inserted just under the skin between your dog's shoulder blades. A special, sterile needle is used for the injection, which is a quick and simple process.
Do I have to pay to update my details?
Yes, most microchip databases charge a fee each time you update your contact information. However, many providers offer a premium, lifetime service that often saves money in the long run. It's best to check with your specific microchip database provider for their pricing details.
Will microchipping hurt my dog?
No, microchipping is generally not painful for dogs. It's very similar to getting a routine vaccination. No anesthetic is needed, and your dog should only feel a brief, mild pinch
Do I need to microchip my puppy?
As a new puppy owner, it's your responsibility to register the microchip in your name. If you got your puppy from a breeder, you'll need to contact the relevant microchip database to transfer the ownership and update the details. Breeders are legally required to microchip and register puppies under their own information first, and it's against the law for them to bypass this by registering the chip directly to you.
How do I update my dog's microchip details?
It's absolutely crucial to remember to keep your dog's microchip details current. If you move house, change your phone number, or have any other changes to your contact information, you must inform your microchip database provider.
Sadly, thousands of stray dogs each year cannot be reunited with their worried owners simply because their microchip details (or tag information) are out of date. Not only is it a legal requirement to ensure your contact details are current, but without accurate information, your pet's microchip becomes effectively useless in helping them find their way back home. Don't let this happen to your beloved companion!
