Information and FAQs

 

How is an animal Microchipped?

The microchip is inserted underneath the skin between the animal's shoulder blades, just below the base of the neck.  This is done using a needle, and is similar to your pet having a routine vaccine jab at the vets.

 

Will it hurt my pet?

The process should not cause your pet any more pain than a vaccine jab at the vets, and, when done properly, most animals don’t notice it’s happening, especially when distracted with a piece of food! Some of the smaller or more sensitive animals may yelp or squeak but recover very quickly.

 

How long does it take?

The microchip itself takes less than 2 seconds to insert. You will then be asked to fill out the registration form which will take a further few minutes.

 

How does the Microchip work?

The microchip emits a radio wave that is detected by a hand held scanner (animal wardens, rescue centres, pounds, police, microchippers and vets are all equipped with these scanners - see the picture to the right). Should your pet go missing and get picked up by, or be taken to one of the above mentioned authorities, it will be scanned and the microchip detected.

 

Where are my details held?

The number on the microchip relates to your personal details which are held on a secure database e.g. Petlog® or Identichip® (The database will vary depending on the microchip manufacturer). The person detecting the chip will call the database to get your details and be able to inform you that your pet has been found.

 

How big is a Microchip?

A microchip is often compared to the size of a grain of rice.  The microchip pictured here is 11mm in length.

 

Will I also get a tag?

When your animal is microchipped, you should be offered a collar tag (like the one pictured to the right), there may be an extra charge for this depending on the microchipper and/or manufacturer. The writing on the tag usually that states that your pet is identified with a microchip, and often has the microchip database phone number. Please note - it is a legal requirement to have a tag on your dog with your name and address; your phone number is also a very good idea and the easiest way for a finder to contact you.

 

My pet already has a Microchip, how do I change the ownership or contact details?

You should contact the relevant database. There are a number of databases in the UK, such as Identichip®,  PETTRAC, and Petlog® . If you know your animal is microchipped but do not know the manufacturer or correct database try Petlog® as they hold the largest database and can usually let you know which is the correct database for a particular microchip number.  Petlog®  can be contacted on phone number: 0870 6066751.

 

I'm interested in being trained as a Microchipper, how do I go about this?

If you work in the animal industry and would like to learn how to microchip companion animals, then you should contact a Microchip manufacturer that runs training courses. Microchipping.org.uk recommends PetDetect®

 

Do I have to have my pet Microchipped if I plan to take him on holiday?

If you plan to travel abroad your pet must be microchipped in order to comply with regulations. If you are travelling within the UK it is not essential but is strongly recommended for your pet's safety. If you are travelling abroad with your pet the microchip MUST be reliable AND fully compliant with the ISO regulations and The Pet Travel Scheme (Pet-Detect® Microchips are fully compliant, for other microchips contact the Manufacturer directly).  For further information on the Pet Travel Scheme see the DEFRA website

How long does the Microchip last?

The microchip should last the life time of your pet. It is very rare for a microchip to stop working. For peace of mind ask your vet or local microchipper to check your pets chip by scanning it every 6 months or so.

 
 

***Please Contact Us if you have any other questions***
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