As of the 6th April 2016 it will be a legal requirement to microchip your dog. Permanent identification of dogs in the UK will have many benefits. A microchip will help reunite  lost dogs with their owners and will act to encourage responsible dog ownership. The introduction of this law is also aimed to help tackle puppy farming and help report hereditary health problems

What to do now?

>I am unsure if my dog has a microchip or not.

We can scan your dog for the presence of a microchip in a free ‘microchip check’ appointment with a nurse. If your animal has a chip then we will record their number on our records and write this down for your own reference. We will be able to tell you who the microchip is registered with and provide advice on how to contact the microchip company. We would then recommend that you check your pets registered details are correct.

>My adult dog does NOT have a microchip.

If your dog does not have a microchip then we are able to insert a microchip for you. This can be done within the free ‘microchip check’ appointment. The charge for the microchip itself will still apply. The insertion of the microchip is usually well tolerated and can be done conscious.

>My puppy does NOT have a microchip

It is now a legal requirement for puppies to be microchipped by the time they are 8 weeks old.  As a result of this compulsory age your breeder may have already had your puppy microchipped. In which case, please ensure the details registered to that microchip are correct. However, in some cases your puppy will still need microchipping. This can be done at your puppies 1st or 2nd vaccination. If your puppy is already fully vaccinated or their next vaccination falls after they are 8 weeks old then you can bring your puppy in for a free ‘health check’ where there microchip can then be placed. Please note the charge for the microchip itself will still apply.

Once your pet is microchipped you must keep your contact details up-to-date on the relevant microchip database. Any change of details must also be registered prior to selling or giving the dog away.

If you have an questions or wish to make an appointment then please phone us on 01606 880 890