Whether you have a cat, dog or a rabbit, your pet can be microchipped. Microchipping your pet gives them the best possible chance of being returned to you if they become lost. Microchipping dogs and cats is a legal requirement, with dogs needing to be microchipped by the time they're 8 weeks old and cats needing to be microchipped by the time they're 20 weeks old. Failing to microchip your pet can result in a fine of up to £500. For peace of mind, our team are here to help you get your pet microchipped and ensure the correct details are being held on the national 24-hour database.
Why microchip your pet?
The thought of your much-loved pet going missing or being stolen is devastating, but unfortunately these things do happen. In the event this happened to your pet, you would want to know that if they were found, a Vet could scan their chip to obtain your contact details and get in touch with you straight away. Sadly, in the UK, 6,000 dogs are put down each year because their owners can't be identified, and they cannot be rehomed. Collars and tags are great, but these can be removed or lost. Microchips last a lifetime as the tissue around the microchip holds it in place under the skin, and it gives your pet the best possible chance of being returned to you in the event they go missing.
What is a microchip and how does it work?
A microchip is a small electronic device that’s the same size as a grain of rice. This intricate little gadget is made of glass or biopolymer and encases a unique 15-digit code which directly links your information to your pet. The tiny microchip is inserted under the skin of your pet in a very quick, straightforward procedure. It's similar to getting an injection, with little to no pain experienced. The protective casing is specially designed so that the microchip won’t move around or cause a reaction to your pet’s skin and will last their whole lifetime. The microchip can be scanned, revealing the code which links to your contact details kept on a database.
To be able to place a microchip, you need to have the correct qualifications. At The Pet Vet, we have qualified Vets & Nurses who can implant microchips in the correct place between the shoulder blades of your pet. It can be done at the same time as neutering or another procedure if you would prefer your pet to be under anaesthetic.
Keeping microchip details up to date
Once your pet is microchipped, it's your responsibility to ensure the contact details on their microchip remain current.
Your pet’s microchip contains vital information, including:
- Your full name, address and contact details.
- The breeder’s licence number and the local authority in which they are licenced (if applicable).
- Your pet’s assigned identification number, name, gender, breed, date of birth and even their colour.
How to check the information held on your pet's microchip
Microchipping is included on our Pet Health Plan!
It's just one of many benefits included to keep your pet safe, happy and protected.
Pet already microchipped? If you join our Pet Health Plan, you'll receive £10 credit on your account instead.
Visit the surgery and our team will be happy to scan your pet's microchip, letting you know the details held on the database. If anything needs updating (for example, if your phone number has changed or you've moved house), you'll be able to log into the database and provide your updated information.