Microchipping

Microchipping is generally considered one of the most useful ways of permanently identifying dogs. Although we are required under the Control of Dogs Order 1992 to have an identity disc on our dogs with a name and address displayed when in a public place, if dogs become lost or stolen, this method of identification can easily become separated from the dog. Tattooing is mostly used to identify greyhounds, but it often becomes blurred with time and could be altered. With pounds, vets and rescues routinely checking lost and stray dogs with a scanner, it can be extremely simple to reunite owner and a dog that has been microchipped.

The microchip itself is a small device, the size of a grain of rice, usually implanted in the scruff of a dog’s neck or between the shoulder blades. Implantation can be done by the vet, rescue organisation, or dog warden. It contains a unique identification number allowing vital personal information about a dog like for example your name and address as owners, to be kept on a central register. This allows identification to be quick and efficient and causes less distress to all concerned. Please remember to have the details contained on it updated if you move house.

Depending on the area you live in, microchipping may be free, or at a reduced cost, but the average price is about £25.