The government has announced that as of April 2016, all dogs in the UK must be microchipped by law. Many owners don’t necessarily know how microchipping works and this can lead to the system breaking down, so Hill’s has laid out the facts in one easy reference guide.
The new laws regarding compulsory microchipping for dogs in the UK have been introduced with the hope of reuniting more lost or stolen pets with their owners, reducing the number of stray animals and helping with the prosecution of more owners of dangerous dogs. This is to the delight of organisations such as The Blue Cross, who have been campaigning for such a move for a long time. Laws have also been changed to ensure that dog attacks on private property can no longer automatically go unpunished, encouraging more responsible dog ownership and hopefully reducing UK dog attack statistics.
Authorities such as the The National Dog Warden Association and Dog’s Trust warn that owners need to be aware that microchipping their pet is only the first step towards the system working. So how does microchipping actually work and what do owners need to do to make sure that their pet is protected in the long-term?
How A Microchip Works
- Each chip is programmed with a unique number that is transmitted when the chip is scanned by a specialised microchip reader.
- This number is associated with the owner’s details in a national database. Because it is a number rather than actual contact details, that the chip transmits, any changes to owner details can be made easily and the data is protected.
- All vets, council run dog kennels (where strays are taken by a dog warden) and many rescue centres have microchip readers/scanners.
- Regardless of chip manufacturer, all UK readers will scan all UK microchips and the various UK pet owner databases work together to share information when trying to locate a microchipped pets’ owner.
“When our dog Bella went missing and we had heard nothing after a week of desperately trying to find her, we started to lose hope. Then we got a call from a vet saying that they had scanned her microchip after someone had brought her in to them and she was back home within the hour!” Mr Fairweather, Devon
Tasty Tips
How A Microchip Is Fitted
- A pre-loaded sterile syringe allows the microchip to be inserted just under the skin, between the shoulder blades.
- Insertion is a quick and straightforward procedure that does not require an anaesthetic.
- Insertion can be performed from as young as one day old.
- The insertion procedure is no more painful than a usual vaccination injection and rarely bleeds. If there is any bleeding, it can be stopped quickly by applying a little pressure.
- Microchips are coated in a special type of glass identical to that used in human pacemakers, so the dog’s body does not try to reject it.
“I was really worried about having Scooby microchipped as a puppy because he was so small. He didn’t bat an eyelid though and was more interested in eating a treat and sniffing the table whilst it was inserted! It’s now been in there for five years with no problems.” Mrs Francis, Surrey
Making Sure A Microchip Stays Effective
- Microchips only work if the contact details associated with the unique chip number are kept up to date by owners. This is usually done by simply phoning the microchip database company – check any microchip paperwork or ask your vet for details.
- Microchips can sometimes move from where they were originally inserted and (rarely) even come out altogether (usually soon after insertion). Very rarely, they stop working entirely, so regular checks are important. Annual vaccinations are a good time to do this, but ‘chip checks’ can also often be done at the vets without an appointment or charge.
“Owners of microchipped pets must remember to keep their contact details updated. 40% of the dogs we pick up that are chipped have incomplete or inaccurate data, meaning they can't be returned." The National Dog Warden Association
Related products
Perfect Digestion Large Breed Puppy Food
Precisely balanced nutrition with Hill's ActivBiome+ prebiotic blend actively contributes to supporting digestive health and overall well-being to help your pet feel their best
Perfect Digestion Small & Mini Adult Dog Food
Hill's Science Plan Perfect Digestion Small & Mini Breed Adult Dog Food with Chicken & Brown Rice supports ultimate digestive well-being & a healthy microbiome.
Large Breed Adult Dog Food
Hill's Science Plan Large Breed Adult Dog Food with Lamb & Rice is a complete pet food, specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology.
This food is specifically designed to fuel the energy needs of large breed dogs during the prime of their life.
Small & Mini Mature Adult 7+ Dog Food
Hill's Science Plan Small & Mini Breed Mature Adult Dog Food with Chicken is a complete pet food, specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology.
Tailored nutrition to support graceful ageing in small dogs. Specially made with a synergistic blend of nutrients for energy & vigor.
Related articles
Dog Bitten by a Snake? Clinical Symptoms & What You Should Do
Learn about snake bites on dogs, including clinical symptoms to look for, what to do if you think your dog was bitten, and treatment & prevention options.
Kidney Disease in Dogs: Causes, Signs & Treatments
Discover the causes, signs, and treatments of kidney disease in dogs and find methods of supporting your dog's kidney health. Learn more at Hill's Pet South Africa.
The Science Behind Your Dog and His Behaviour
Discover how the field of dog science is giving us more and more insights into the inner workings of our furry best friends.
What should I do about my overweight dog?
Dog obesity is a significant problem - learn more about helping your dog become trimmer and healthier through improved nutrition.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.