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Whilst every dog owner is legally obliged to ensure that their dog is wearing a collar and identification disc, thousands of owners have now taken more positive steps to ensure their much-loved companion can also be identified through microchip technology.
The technology for microchipping pets has been available in the UK since 1989. During this time over 2 million dogs and cats have been microchipped, and this number continues to grow at an estimated 7,500 registrations per week.
The method of microchipping is now recognised as the most effective and secure way of permanently identifying a pet. Once microchipped, the unique identification number is registered to the animal and the owner's details are placed on a national database. If you have ever lost your dog, you will know just how distressing it can be.
Sadly, the reality is that of the many thousands of dogs that go missing each year, it is estimated that less than half of them are reunited with their owners. Don't wait until it's too late. Get your dog microchipped and have the assurance that should he become lost (or be stolen), he is more likely to be returned to you safe and sound.
So, what are microchips and how do they work?
Below are the most common questions asked, with all the best advice to enable you to decide if microchipping is the best form of identification for your pet.
What is a microchip?
A microchip is a small electronic device, which is the size of a grain of rice. The microchip is coded with a unique number that can be read by a scanner. A microchip works through radio wave frequency.
How is the microchip implanted?
Using a specially designed implanting device the microchip is injected through a sterile needle under the dog's skin.
Where is the microchip implanted?
In dogs, the microchip is implanted under the skin, between the shoulder blades.
Does it hurt?
No anaesthetic is required and the procedure should cause no more discomfort than a standard vaccination.
How does the microchip stay in place?
Once the microchip has been inserted, the dog's body tissue surrounding the microchip attaches itself, preventing movement of the chip.
Why does the body not reject the microchip?
The microchip is encased in the same material (bio-compatible glass) that is used in human pacemakers. The microchip and the implanting equipment are sterilised before use, so that the dog's body does not reject the microchip.
How is the identification number read?
Microchips work when a scanner is passed over them. This is because the scanner produces low frequency radio waves that passively activate the microchip, allowing the unique number to be read.
Who has a scanner?
It is estimated that there are currently over 10,000 scanners in use throughout the UK. These can be found at most veterinary practices, local authorities and animal welfare groups. The Authorities and animal welfare groups use scanners to check stray dogs to see if they have been microchipped. If the dog has been microchipped he can then be returned to the owner easily and quickly.
How are the owners traced?
If an animal is found to have a microchip, the Local Authority, Vet or animal welfare organisation contacts a national database to find the owner's details. The owner then can be contacted and reunited with their dog.
Where can I get my dog microchipped?
Most veterinary practices in the UK can microchip your dog, along with a growing number of local authorities and animal welfare groups.
How much will it cost?
You can expect to pay £20-£30 to have your dog microchipped at the vets.
Dogs Trust currently provides a reduced price microchipping service at our Rehoming Centres– please contact directly to book a mutually convenient time.
Alternatively you may want to contact your Local Authority Dog Warden for information on any local microchipping schemes that may be running.
Dogs Trust also microchips all dogs that come into our Rehoming Centres before they are rehomed.
Associated factsheets: