Microchipping is a key part of caring for your pet, making it easier for you to find them if they wander off. From 10 June 2024, it will also become a legal requirement for both cats and dogs to have a microchip, failure to comply will incur a fine of up to £500.
What are Microchips?
A microchip is a tiny electronic chip the size of a grain of rice. It is commonly inserted under the skin, between your pet’s shoulder blades, with a needle. The microchip contains a unique identification number that can be read by a special scanner. This number is then used to identify your pet and retrieve your contact information.
How do Microchips work?
When a missing pet is found, they are often taken to a veterinarian or animal shelter, where they are examined for a microchip. If the pet has a microchip, the scanner will reveal the unique identification number associated with the chip. This number can then be used by the animal shelter or veterinarian to contact the microchip company and collect the pet owner’s contact information.
What are the benefits of Microchipping?
- Permanent identification: Unlike collars and tags that can fall off or be removed, microchips provide a permanent form of identification for your pet.
- Medical information: Microchipping provides a way to store medical information, such as allergies or special health needs, that can be accessed by veterinarians in case of an emergency. This is particularly useful for pets with chronic medical conditions that may require immediate attention.
- Travelling abroad: Microchipping is often a legal requirement for pets travelling across international borders. The microchip ensures that the pet can be identified and returned to their owner if they get lost or separated during the journey.
- Proof of ownership: In the event of a dispute over ownership of a pet, a microchip can provide proof of ownership. The identification number on the microchip can be traced back to the owner’s contact details, helping to resolve any disagreements.
- Quick and easy: Microchipping is a quick and easy procedure that can be done during a routine visit to the veterinarian. The implantation of the chip is a similar process to a vaccination, and your pet will hardly even notice it.
- Increases the chances of finding your lost pet: Microchipping significantly increases the chances of your pet being returned to you if they ever become lost. In fact, studies have shown that pets with microchips are more likely to be reunited with their owners than those without.
- Provides peace of mind: Knowing that your pet can be easily identified and returned to you if they become lost can provide peace of mind and reduce the stress of pet ownership.
Being a VIP member and microchipping:
Did you know that, by becoming a VIP member, you get free microchipping for your pet? Head over to our VIP page and discover the other amazing benefits our VIP Healthcare plan has in store for you and your lovely pet!
In conclusion, microchipping is a simple and effective way to ensure that your pet can be easily identified and returned to you if they ever become lost. If you haven’t already done so, we highly recommend that you have your pet microchipped.
