Is Microchipping Compulsory for Dogs in the UK?
Yes. Dogs in the UK must be microchipped and registered on an approved database by the time they’re eight weeks old. There are limited exemptions where a vet decides that microchipping would be harmful to a dog’s health.
If your dog or puppy hasn’t been chipped yet, Rackheath Vets provides pet microchipping for owners in Rackheath, Norwich and surrounding areas.
When Does a Puppy Need to Be Microchipped?
Puppies must normally be microchipped and registered by eight weeks old.
If you’re buying or adopting a puppy, ask for proof that they’ve already been microchipped. This could be their microchip certificate or veterinary records.
Once you become the keeper, make sure the details registered against the microchip are correct.
What Does a Dog Microchip Actually Do?
A microchip gives your dog a unique identification number.
When the chip is scanned, that number can be used to find the dog’s record on a registered database. The record contains information that can be used to identify the keeper, including their contact details.
This can be particularly useful if your dog goes missing and is taken to a vet, rescue centre or dog warden.
A microchip isn’t a GPS tracker. You can’t open an app and see where your dog is.
Do I Need to Update My Dog’s Microchip?
Yes. Getting the chip fitted is only part of the job.
You’re responsible for keeping the information on your dog’s microchip record up to date. If you move house or your contact information changes, update the details with the database your dog is registered with.
Outdated details can cause a simple problem. Someone finds your dog, scans the chip and then can’t reach you using the information on the database.
If you don’t know which database holds your dog’s details, a vet, dog warden or rescue centre can scan the chip if you don’t have the microchip number.
What Happens If My Dog Isn’t Microchipped?
If your dog should be microchipped and isn’t, you could face enforcement action.
The police or local council can issue a notice requiring you to have your dog microchipped within 21 days. Failure to comply can result in a fine of up to £500.
So if you’ve recently taken on a dog and you’re unsure whether they’re chipped, it’s worth getting them scanned rather than assuming.
Does My Dog Still Need a Collar and Tag?
Yes.
Microchipping doesn’t replace your dog’s collar and identification tag. Dogs in public places must still wear a collar and tag showing the keeper’s name and address.
A tag also makes it much easier for someone who finds your dog nearby to contact you without first taking them somewhere to have their microchip scanned.
Can an Older Dog Be Microchipped?
If you’ve discovered that an adult dog isn’t microchipped, you can still arrange to have it done.
If you’re unsure whether a chip is already present, ask for your dog to be scanned first. You don’t want to rely on missing paperwork as proof that a dog hasn’t previously been chipped.
Dog Microchipping in Norwich
Rackheath Vets provides microchipping for dogs and puppies from Rackheath, Norwich and nearby areas.
If your puppy needs their first microchip or you’ve taken on an older dog with an unknown microchipping history, contact our team on 01603 955056 to arrange an appointment.