Microchipping

Microchipping is a way of increasing the chance of being reunited with your pet should they go missing. Since April 2016 it has been compulsory by law to have your dog microchipped and can carry a £500 fine if your dog is not microchipped. It is strongly recommended to microchips your cats although there is no legal requirement. They are essential for reuniting lost cats who can sometimes accidentally end up far from home. It also enables you to use microchip reading cat flaps which prevent other cats entering your home. Even indoor only cats would be microchipped as these cats are more likely to get lost if they ever do get outside.

The microchip itself is about the size of a grain of rice and is injected under the skin between the shoulder blades. Occasionally they can move to other areas of the body. The microchips contain a unique number which is registered on a database with yours and your pets details. It is vital that your details are kept up to date.

To update your details e.g. if you move house, you must contact the database directly and there may be a charge. Microchips can be registered on one of many different databases. If you are unsure where your pet is registered contact one of the below databases and they should be able to point you in the correct direction.