What Is Microchipping?
Microchipping is a permanent ID system, which involves a chip no bigger than a grain of rice being implanted under the skin of your pet's scruff.
Each microchip has a unique number, which can be read by a portable scanner. Most vets, including Sandhole Veterinary Centre, local Kent authorities and rescue homes, have access to, ensuring your contact details can be easily obtained from the central microchipping database.
Book a pet microchipping appointment
In the UK, microchipping is now mandatory for all dogs, and owners are required to keep their contact details up to date. While this law only applies to dogs, we also recommend microchipping your cats to improve the chances of being reunited if they go missing.
This rule seeks to decrease the number of stray animals, encourage responsible pet ownership, and speed up the process of finding an owner in case of an emergency. It's equally important to keep your contact information current in the microchipping database since inaccurate information can make it more difficult to return your pet securely.
All puppies must be chipped by eight weeks of age before ownership is transferred from the breeder. You can be fined if your dog is not microchipped. It is also worth noting that if you plan to take your pet abroad, they must be microchipped.
Microchipping Your Pet at Sandole Vets
Sedation is not necessary for pet microchipping as this procedure causes minimal discomfort and can be done in a routine consultation. Please don't worry if you can't recall (or know) if your pet is microchippe. It is very easy to check for a microchip using a scanner. We can arrange for a team member at our practice to scan your pet and check for a working chip. Rest assured; we always check that an animal hasn't already got a microchip before implanting a new one.
At the time of the microchip implant, you will be asked to complete a registration form, from which your details are then submitted to a national database. It is important to update any changes to your contact details as soon as possible. At Sandhole Veterinary Centre, all our microchips comply with the International Standard (ISO) and can therefore be recognised by scanners abroad.
For more information, please speak to one of our friendly team members at our practice in Snodland by calling the branch most local to your home address.
Which Animals Should Be Microchipped?
Although microchipping is a legal requirement for dogs and puppies (which must be microchipped by eight weeks of age before ownership transfer), it is also highly recommended for cats, rabbits, and other pets.
Be aware that failure to microchip your dog can result in a fine of up to £500. Additionally, pets traveling abroad must be microchipped and have an Animal Health Certificate.
Book a microchipping appointment
Microchipping FAQs
Is Microchipping Permanent?
In the majority of cases, yes. Once the chip has been placed, it will remain under your pet’s skin. It is very common for the chip to move from the original place it is injected. Professionals are aware of this and will check the whole animal with the microchip scanner! Please note that it is possible for a microchip to come out after it has been injected. This is very rare. At Gower Vets in Swansea, if your pet’s microchip can-not be found after we have implanted it we will replace it free of charge.
Can all pets be microchipped?
Most pets can be microchipped including larger birds and tortoises. If you are unsure if your pet can be micro-chipped please call us.
Does my indoor cat need microchipping?
Cats are unique individuals with varying preferences. While many enjoy outdoor time, some may strongly prefer an indoor lifestyle. However, even indoor cats that occasionally explore outdoors can become easily spooked by unfamiliar surroundings and may run away.
Due to their limited outdoor experience, these cats are more prone to getting lost and struggling to find their way home. Microchipping your cat, even if they primarily stay indoors, is the safest precaution. You can never fully predict when a cat might venture outdoors and become lost.
Furthermore, microchipping is mandatory for cats travelling abroad as part of the required identification for entry into many countries.
How do I update my pet's microchip details?
Whenever your personal contact information changes, including your mobile phone number, it's crucial to update the microchip company with your new details.
Updating your contact information with your veterinarian will not change your microchip registration, as this is managed by a separate company.
Similarly, if you rehome a microchipped animal, the physical chip itself does not require any alteration. However, the unique 15-digit microchip number must be reassigned to your contact information, replacing the previous owner's details.
You are responsible for contacting the microchip company directly to update your information. However, your veterinarian can assist you if you've lost your pet's microchip number or are unsure which company registered the microchip.
