Animal Welfare: Microchipping

A tiny microchip – the size of a grain of rice – is painlessly inserted under your pet’s skin.

More than two million animals have been microchipped in the UK and it is the RSPCA’s policy to microchip all dogs and cats we rehome.

Thousands of pets are lost every year and many are never reunited with their owners. We believe the best way to make sure you find a missing pet is to have it microchipped.

Q. How does microchipping work?

A. 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 national Petlog computer database and, if a lost or stolen animal is found, the code will be revealed by passing a scanner over the microchip. Then it is an easy job to find contact details for the owner.

Q. How can microchipping help to find my pet?

A. The Petlog microchipping scheme provides a fast, fool-proof means of identifying your animal wherever it is found. The RSPCA as well as many other animal welfare organizations, vets and local authority dog wardens have scanners which can read the microchip’s details.

Q. Is microchipping easy to do?

A.  Yes, it is as simple as an injection. A tiny microchip – the size of a grain of rice – is painlessly inserted under your pet’s skin. Once in place, it cannot move or be seen, but can be ready by the scanner.

Q. Which animals can be microchipped?

A.  Most animals – but it is most commonly used on dogs, cats and horses.

Q. How much does it cost?

A.  Prices vary and you will need to check with your own vet. However, once you have made this “one off” payment your pet is in the Petlog database for life and your details are quickly amended if you change address.

Q. Where can I have my pet microchipped?

A. Contact your veterinary surgeon who will be able to advise you.

Q. My pet has got a collar tag so why should it be microchipped?

A. By law all dogs have to wear a collar with a tag showing the name and address of the owner, but collars can break and identification tags can get lost.  Microchips identify your pet permanently and harmlessly.