Dog Microchipping

At Rutland Vets in Northamptonshire, your dog’s safety and well-being are our top priority. Microchipping is a simple yet vital part of responsible dog ownership, offering a permanent way to identify your pet if they become lost or stolen. It gives you peace of mind, knowing there’s a much greater chance of being reunited with your dog should the unexpected happen.

Yes. Microchipping is a legal requirement for all dogs in the UK.

• Puppies must be microchipped by the time they are 8 weeks old.
• Breeders are responsible for ensuring this is done before a puppy is sold or rehomed.
• As the new owner, you are legally required to update your contact details with the national microchip database as soon as you take ownership.

Failure to comply with these requirements can result in a fine of up to £500.

Microchipping is a quick, safe, and permanent way to identify your dog. A tiny chip, around the size of a grain of rice, is inserted under the skin, usually between the shoulder blades. This chip carries a unique identification number that is registered on a national database alongside your contact details.

If your dog is found, a vet, local authority, or rescue centre can scan the chip and contact you directly, helping to reunite you as quickly as possible.

As well as it being a legal requirement in the UK, there are lots of other reasons why microchipping your dog is a crucial step. If you’re going through the motions of getting a puppy, this should definitely be on your list. Find out more:

• Legally required for all dogs over 8 weeks old
• Permanent identification that can’t be lost or removed
• Greatly increases the chance of recovering a lost or stolen dog
• Essential for travel under the Animal Health Certificate scheme
• Offers peace of mind for dog owners, especially in emergencies

Even if your dog wears a collar and tag, microchipping provides that added security if these are removed or lost for any reason.

Microchipping is only effective if your details are accurate. If you move house, change your phone number, or rehome your dog, it’s your responsibility to update the microchip database.

At Rutland Vets, we can check whether your dog has a chip and help ensure the registered information is current.

Microchipping is a quick and minimally uncomfortable procedure that doesn’t require sedation. Many dog owners choose to have it done during routine health checks or vaccinations.

Here’s what you can expect at your appointment:

• We’ll scan your dog to check for an existing chip
• If needed, we’ll implant a new ISO-compliant microchip
• We’ll register your contact details on the national database
• You’ll receive guidance on keeping your information up to date

The chip lasts a lifetime and doesn’t require maintenance.

If your dog hasn’t been microchipped, or you’re unsure, get in touch with our friendly team at Rutland Vets in Northamptonshire. We’ll check your dog for a chip and arrange a quick appointment if needed. Our team is here to help you stay compliant with the law and keep your pet protected.

If you’re visiting us for a different appointment and want to ask us about microchipping, just let your vet or a member of our team know and we can look at getting this arranged for you.

Contact Rutland Vets today to book your dog’s microchipping appointment or to check your pet’s details are up to date. Our teams across our four Northamptonshire branches are ready to assist you and your pet, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch.