UK Pet Microchipping Laws

In England, Scotland, and Wales, it has been a legal requirement since April 2016 that all dogs must be microchipped by the time they are 8 weeks old and registered on an approved database. This applies to all dogs, regardless of breed or size.

Dog owners who fail to comply can face fines. The microchip, a tiny device about the size of a grain of rice, is implanted under the dog's skin and contains a unique identification number that links to the owner's contact details on an approved database.

From 10 June 2024, it became mandatory for cats in England to be microchipped and registered on an approved database by the time they reach 20 weeks of age. This new law aims to help reunite lost cats with their owners and improve animal welfare.

Cat owners who do not comply may face a fine and will be given 21 days to have their cat microchipped. After this period, further fines can be issued for continued non-compliance.

Microchipping is a quick and simple procedure that can be performed by a vet or trained implanter. The microchip is injected under the pet's skin, usually between the shoulder blades, using a sterile needle. The process takes only a few seconds and is similar to a routine vaccination.

Most pets experience minimal discomfort, and no anesthetic is required. After implantation, the chip number is registered on an approved database along with your contact details. You'll receive a certificate with the microchip number and database information.

Can't get to a vet clinic? Many providers in London offer mobile microchipping services that come directly to your home. This is especially convenient for:

• Pets who get anxious during car journeys
• Owners without transport
• Multiple pets needing microchipping
• Puppies and kittens not yet fully vaccinated

Mobile services typically cost £40–£85 and take just a few minutes. The provider brings all necessary equipment and can register your pet on the database immediately.

In the UK, several databases are approved for registering pet microchips. Your vet or microchipping provider will register your pet's details on one of these databases. Common approved databases include Petlog, Animal Tracker, PetTrac, and others recognized by the government.

It's crucial to keep your registered details current. If you move, change phone numbers, or transfer ownership of your pet, update the database immediately. Some databases charge a small fee for updates or transfers, while others offer lifetime registration.

While microchipping is mandatory for dogs and cats, there's a separate legal requirement for dogs to wear a collar with an identification tag when in public places. The tag must show your surname and address (including postcode). A phone number is recommended but not legally required.

Microchips provide permanent identification that can't be lost or removed, but visible ID tags help reunite lost pets more quickly since anyone can read them without needing a scanner.