Microchipping is an important part of responsible pet ownership. It provides peace of mind that if your pet was to go missing, he or she would have the best chance of being returned safely.
When to microchip?
Microchips can be implanted at any time. It is often done in puppies and kittens at or around the time of initial vaccination, or when neutered. It is still a legal requirement for dogs to wear an identity tag on a collar even when microchipped.
If a stray animal is found it is always scanned. Vets, most rescue centres and local authorities have scanners. When a microchip is found, the database can be accessed 24 hours a day and the owner informed.
What happens when your pet is microchipped?
The microchip is very small, about the size of a grain of rice, the procedure is very simple and no more painful than an injection. The microchip, which has a unique number, is placed under the loose skin between the shoulder blades. Your pet will not be aware of the microchip once it is inserted and the body will not react to it as it is coated in the same material that is used in human pacemakers!
Your vet will check the microchip with a handheld scanner. Your pet’s unique identity number, together with your contact details are registered by you or your vet onto a national database. This can be done online or by post. It is important to change your details should you move address.