Most dog owners will probably already be aware that from 6 April 2016 it will be a legal requirement in England for all dogs, by the age of 8 weeks, to be microchipped and registered with their keepers' contact details.
All keepers, including breeders, must also ensure their dog's microchip contact details continue to be kept up-to-date. Key points that dog owners and breeders should be aware of:
- if an owner changes their details, moves house or changes contact number they must make sure details are updated on the database
- if a dog without a microchip comes to the attention of the authorities, the dog's keeper may be served with a notice requiring the dog to be microchipped within 21 days, and may face prosecution and a £500 fine if they do not comply
- the only exemption from the requirement to microchip a dog is where a vet has certified in writing that the dog is unfit to be microchipped
- anyone breeding dogs will be responsible for microchipping their puppies before they sell or give them to new keepers
Free microchipping is available at some charities including Battersea Dogs Home and The Dogs Trust. Alternatively speak to your local vet.
