Why microchipping is important for all pets
Microchipping is the easiest and most effective way to ensure that your pet is returned to you if they ever become lost or are stolen.
It’s a quick and painless procedure that will mean that your pet will always be able to be identified – and, as long as you keep your details up to date on the national database. This means they can be reunited with you as soon as possible.
It should be noted that it is a legal requirement for all dogs and cats to be microchipped, by the ages of eight and 20 weeks respectively. You can be fined up to £500 if your dog is not microchipped.
If your pet is lost and isn’t microchipped, please do not hesitate to come forward to collect them if they are found. You have 21 days to comply with the law before the fine is enforced and we will work with you to ensure they’re microchipped in time to avoid this. Being reunited with your pet is the most important thing!
We are also happy to, and in fact encourage, microchipping for other pets, too.
A microchip is a tiny computer chip that is implanted into the loose skin at the back of your pet’s neck.
As our vets have to use a needle to impact the chip, your pet may feel a small amount of discomfort – but only for a few seconds. There is no pain, and many pets may not notice that anything has happened!
It contains a unique code that matches to a database where your contact details are also stored.
If your pet does become lost or is stolen, local authorities such as vets, dog wardens or police officers can scan for the chip, identify your pet, and contact you to arrange returning them to you.
It is a safe and permanent form of identification, and causes no discomfort for your pet – in fact, they won’t even know that the microchip is there.