Microchips are great for reunifying lost pets and their owners, but only when the registration info is correct.
There is a notable increase in the number of reports of missing pets we are receiving. What is most alarming is how many owners are unsure their animals chip details are correct. A microchip is only as good as the info recorded at the time of implantation. If you have moved, changed your phone number or recently acquired a pet, you should check everything is up to date.
Some implanters ask the owner to register their details themselves after the pet has been chipped. It is apparent that this sometimes is not happening. Paperwork is filed without confirming the info is actually on the companies database therefore making the microchip pointless.
Here are some tips on checking everything is current
- Dig out your paperwork and see when your details where registered and when.
- Can’t find your registration form? Make an appointment to have your pet scanned so you have their number and liaise with the chip company.
- Amend any out of date information.
- Include an email and a phone number (relative or friend if not your own) that hasn’t changed in years.
- Let your vet know your correct details so they have a record.
There may be a charge to make the changes but don’t wait until your pet goes missing to find out. Make it a New Years resolution to do is ASAP as it will save a lot of heartache should the worst happen. It is the law to have your dog microchipped and the Government are looking to do the same for cats,
There are currently 19 databases who are DEFRA compliant, this link refers to dogs but the majority do all pet species.