Microchip – FAQ’s

Frequently asked questions

• Q1. How does microchipping work?
  Once an animal has been microchipped, it has its own unique code number,  The owner’s details and the code are put on to a microchip database. Then if a lost or stolen animal is found, the code will be revealed by passing a scanner over the microchip.  Then it’s just a matter of matching the code with the microchip database to find contact details for the owner
• Q2. How can microchipping help to find my pet?
  The microchipping scheme provides a fast, fool-proof means of identifying your animal wherever it is found.  The RSPCA, as well as many other welfare organisations, vets and local authority dog wardens have scanners which can read the microchip’s details.
• Q3. Is microchipping easy to do?
  Yes, it’s as simple as an injection.  A tiny microchip – the size of a grain of rice – is inserted under your pet’s skin. Once in place, it cannot move or be seen, but can be read by the scanner.
• Q4. Which animals can be microchipped?  Most animals can be microchipped but the procedure is commonly used on dogs and cats.
• Q5. How much does it cost?
  Prices vary but the cost of inserting a microchip and registering your pet on to the microchip database for life is around £20-£30.  Owners details can be quickly amended if an address or telephone number changes.
  However there are a number of charities like the RSPCA who offer FREE microchipping serves/ events, make sure to check our events section to see if we have any free events coming up.
  note: microchipping companies may charge for changing your details (approx £6 each time); however many have a one off charge (approx £16-£20)  for the ability to chance your details at any time/as many times as you like.  Some have special offers if you pay for this service within the first month of your pet’s microchipping.
• Q6. Where can I have my pet microchipped?
  Contact your local veterinary surgeon.
• Q7. My pet has got a collar tag so why should it be microchipped?
  By law all dogs have to wear a collar with a tag showing the name and address of the owner; collars can break and identification tags fall off and get lost.  From 6th April 2016, by law in England, all dogs must be microchipped, (this varies for Wales & Scotland).  Microchips identify your pet permanently and harmlessly.