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Dog microchipping

Dog microchipping is compulsory

It is compulsory for all dogs over eight weeks of age to be microchipped.

Here's our guide to everything you need to know about the law.

What is a microchip?

The microchip is the size of a grain of rice and it will need to be officially registered with an approved microchip database.

It will hold up-to-date information about the dog and its owner's contact details.

How is the microchip inserted?

A sterile microchip is inserted painlessly under the skin between the dog's shoulder blades and takes seconds to complete, meaning a dog can be in and out of a practice within a few minutes.

How long does a microchip last?

A microchip is designed to last the lifetime of a dog.

What happens if the owner's details change?

Owners must make sure that if they change their telephone number or move house that these details are updated on the central database; details of how to do this will be sent with the registration certificate.

Is there a fine or penalty if a dog isn't microchipped?

Yes. If you do not get your dog microchipped or your details registered on an approved database, then it will be considered as not complying with the new regulations and a notice may be served.

If the owner does not microchip their dog within 21 days of the served notice, they will be liable to pay a fine of £500.