Microchipping your dog becomes law around the UK from April 6th, 2016.
The new legislation means that from this date, the keepers of dogs, with very few exceptions (find out what these are, below), are responsible for having
their dogs’ chipped by 8 weeks old and for keeping the information held on the chip, up to date.
The overwhelming opinion of professional associations, charities and vets seems to be unanimous support for microchipping and we took it as something that
was essential when we got Dexter (& now Maisie). Although, we have found one site (www.chipmenot.org.uk) that is questioning the need and potential
health implications of mandatory micro-chipping.
Is there a fine/penalty if I don’t get my dog microchipped?
Yes. Under the regulations, your dog is considered microchipped when you (1) implant the dog with a chip and (2) register your details on an approved database.
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 regulations
and a notice may be served. If the keeper does not microchip their dogs within 21 days of the served notice, then you will be liable to pay a fine
of £500.
Is there a fine/penalty if I don’t keep my database details up to date?
Yes. Under the regulations, your dog is considered microchipped when you (1) implant the dog with a chip and (2) register your details on an approved database.
If any keeper subsequently moves, changes contact telephone number, etc. then the dog is no longer considered microchipped under the regulations and enforcement
can be taken and a notice served. If the keeper does NOT get their details up to date within 21 days of the served notice, then you will be liable
to pay a fine of £500.
These answers are taken from petlog.org.uk. Petlog is managed by The Kennel Club and is the UK’s largest lost and found database for microchipped pets.
What are the exceptions?
Just one, as far as we can see. Health.
If a vet considers that microchipping would be detrimental to the health of the dog, that dog may be exempt from the legislation for the period stated
by the vet. The vet would need to certify this in a form provided by the Secretary of State and they will be expected to put an end date for the exemption.
The only way exemption can be extended is by the vet completing the form again to state that the reason still exists.
Where Can You Get Your Dog Microchipped?
Your vet will do it for you (usually between £15 – £20)
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home are running their Responsible Ownership events at their 3 centres in London,
Brands Hatch and Windsor
Dogs Trust are running similar events in some of their re-homing centres
See useful links for details of the Battersea and Dogs Trust Events.