Your Dog - VIDEO: Why is microchipping important?

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VIDEO: Why is microchipping important?

Microchipping facts
Every dog owner is legally obliged to ensure that their dog is wearing a collar and identification disc and thousands of owners have now ensured their dog can also be identified through microchip technology.

The technology for microchipping pets has been around in the UK since 1989. Since then, over 2 million dogs and cats have been microchipped, and there are now around 7,500 registrations a week.

Microchipping is now the most effective and secure way of permanently identifying a pet.

The unique identification number is registered to the animal and the owner's details are placed on a national database.

Microchipping Explained from BPG Magazines on Vimeo.

What is a microchip?
A microchip is a small electronic device the size of a grain of rice. The microchip is coded with a unique number that can be read by a scanner. It works through radio wave frequency.

How is the microchip implanted?
Using a specially designed handheld implanting device the microchip is injected through a sterile needle under the dog's skin.

Where is the microchip implanted?
The microchip is implanted under the skin, between the shoulder blades.

Does it hurt your dog?
No anaesthetic is required and the procedure shouldn’t be any more unpleasant than a standard vaccination.

How does the microchip stay in place?
Once the microchip has been put into place, the dog's body tissue surrounding the microchip attaches itself, preventing the chip moving around.

How is the identification number read?
Microchips work when a scanner is passed over them. The scanner produces low frequency radio waves that passively activate the microchip, allowing the unique number to be read.

Who has a scanner?
There are currently over 10,000 scanners in use throughout the UK. They’re used at most vets, local authorities and animal welfare groups. Authorities will use scanners to check stray dogs to see if they have been microchipped.

How are the owners traced?
If an animal is found with a microchip, the Local Authority, Vet or animal welfare organisation contacts a national database to find the owner's details. The owner can then be contacted and reunited with their dog.

Where can I get my dog microchipped?
Most vets in the UK can microchip your dog, along with a 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. Alternatively you can contact your Local Authority Dog Warden, such as Tina Shaw, who you can see in our video above, for information on any local microchipping schemes that may be running.

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