Microchipping your dogs, cats and other pets

What is microchipping?

Microchipping is a safe and permanent way of identifying your pet and is the best way to ensure that they can be returned to you if they are lost or stolen.

Many pets can be microchipped, including dogs, cats, rabbits and a variety of other species. 

It is a legal requirement for all dogs over the age of eight weeks old to be microchipped and for you to keep your and their details up to date on the database. You can be fined if you do not ensure this is done.

From 10th June 2024 it will also be a legal requirement in cats, with a failure to do so by the time they reach the age of 20 weeks punishable by a fine of up to £500.

While collars and tags can be lost or removed, microchips are a more reliable and permanent form of identification. 

However, they will only work if you keep your contact details, such as your address and phone number, updated and accurate.