Dog microchipping becomes compulsory across UK

Dog owners who have not had their pet’s microchipped could face a fine of up to £500, as a new law comes into force.

When a dog is microchipped a tiny chip about the size of a grain of rice is inserted under the loose skin on the back of its neck, giving it a unique 15-digit code.

If a dog is lost or gets stolen and is picked up by a council or a shelter, the microchip can be scanned and matched to contact details stored on a database

That’s great in theory but:

• What happens when owners move house?
• Will owners remember to notify their data holding company they have moved?
• Veterinary practices are not responsibly for amending owner details, that’s the owner’s responsibility and in most cases can be done online.
• Veterinary practice staff generally follow good practice guidelines and provide the data holders contact details to the registered owner when the procedure is carried out.        

What about those dogs that are microchipped and owners have overlooked their obligation to inform the data holding company they have moved?

These animals will not be reunited with their owners unless the owners can be found.

DSL is a specialist veterinary account collection agency with strong values and tracing technology that can help locate absent owners, call 01527 543672 or email mike.brooks@dsluk.net for more information.