What’s the Importance of Pet Microchipping Hereford?
Pet microchipping is a crucial practice for ensuring the safety and identification of pets. Unlike collars or tags, which can be lost or removed, a microchip provides permanent identification that cannot be easily altered, making it an effective way to reunite lost pets with their owners. When a pet is found, animal shelters and veterinary clinics can scan the chip to quickly retrieve the owner’s contact information, speeding up the process of returning the pet home. Book your pet’s microchipping Hereford appointment!
Additionally, a registered microchip serves as proof of ownership in case of disputes, providing legal clarity. Research shows that microchipped pets are significantly more likely to be recovered than those without chips, especially for cats, who often do not wear collars.
Since microchips are readable by scanners in most countries, they are especially valuable for pets that travel or may be relocated, further enhancing their importance. Microchipping Hereford will act as a preventative method for your dogs or cats and is a legal requirement in the UK.
How is my Pet Microchipped?
The implantation of a microchip is a simple, minimally invasive procedure involving a small needle to implant the chip under the scruff of your pet's skin on the back of their neck. It causes little discomfort for the pet and can be done in a regular short appointment. Once the microchip is implanted, the unique identification number associated with it is registered in a pet recovery database, along with your contact information. It's important to keep this information updated if your address or phone number changes. You will be given a form to fill out before your pet is seen for their microchipping appointment.
Any changes in address or contact information will need to be updated to the database so your pet’s microchip remains correct and relevant. Speak to our reception to update your information and seek advice.
Microchipping Hereford: Puppies & Kittens
It's typically recommended to have the procedure done when they are around 8 weeks old, though it can be done at any time after they are old enough. Since puppies and kittens are naturally curious and can easily wander off, microchipping provides an additional layer of security that can't be lost or removed, unlike collars or tags. Reputable breeders should have your adopted pets microchipped before they’re rehomed to you, with your information so that they’re already covered.
Your kittens must be microchipped in their early years, as cats are roamers and notorious for wondering of if they’re outdoor pets.
Should My Rabbit be Microchipped?
While it’s not a legal requirement, microchipping is important for all pets that could potentially escape or get stolen. Rabbits can escape gardens and the chances of them being returned is slim unless they’re found with a microchip.
FAQs for Microchipping Hereford
I recently brought home an animal from the shelter. Does it have microchips? How am I going to find out?
A microchip could be detectable if the animal was scanned by the shelter. Find out the microchip number of your new pet from the shelter so you can register it in your name. When you take your new pet in for a checkup, your veterinarian can scan it for a microchip.
After the microchip is inserted, Should I keep an eye on my pet?
Once your pet has been microchipped, monitor it according to the directions provided by your veterinarian. Get in touch with your veterinarian if you see any anomalies at the location of the microchip, such as leakage (oozing) or swelling.
Is there a fee or penalty if I choose not to microchip my dog?
As of April 6, 2016, microchipping is now required for all canines older than eight weeks. Your dog must have had a microchip inserted and have had your information registered on an authorised database in order for it to be deemed microchipped. Should you be found guilty of violating the warning, you may be fined up to £500. It is now also a legal requirement for all cats to be chipped.
