Microchipping
A microchip is a tiny, permanent form of identification that gives your pet the best possible chance of being reunited with you if they are lost or stolen.
How it works
A microchip is about the size of a grain of rice and contains a unique 15-digit number. It’s implanted under the skin between the shoulder blades using a small needle — similar to a vaccination. The number on the chip is registered to your contact details on a national pet database.
If your pet is found and scanned at any vet practice, rescue centre or by a local dog warden, your details can be retrieved and you can be reunited.
A legal requirement
In England:
- All dogs over 8 weeks of age must be microchipped and registered to their keeper’s current details
- All owned cats over 20 weeks of age must be microchipped (this came into force on 10 June 2024)
Failure to comply can result in a fine of up to £500.
Keeping your details up to date
A microchip only works if the registered details are correct. You must update the database whenever you:
- Move house
- Change your phone number
- Change ownership of the pet
You update your details directly with the database your microchip is registered to (such as Petlog, Identibase or similar). The database details are on the registration paperwork given to you when the chip was implanted.
Other pets
We can microchip rabbits and other small mammals on request. While not legally required, microchipping any pet provides reassurance that they can be identified if lost.