According to a recent report, over 5,000 cats and dogs were stolen in the UK between 2019 and 20231.
This alarming statistic highlights the importance of pet safety, and is one of the reasons why the UK government made changes to legislation to make microchipping cats compulsory from June 2024. This follows the compulsory chipping of dogs and horses in recent years.
All puppies over the age of 8 weeks and pet cats from 20 weeks must now be chipped or their owners could face a £500 fine2.
The legislation also includes the mandatory storage of the owner's details on a government-approved database, such as Petlog.
Why you should get your pet microchipped
Legislation aside, there are numerous reasons to get your pet microchipped, not least to keep them safe and make them easier to find should they wander off or get lost!
A cat with a microchip is 21 times3 more likely to be reunited with their owner should they wander off or get lost.
Unlike a collar, a chip can’t fall off, making it a far more reliable and permanent method of identification. It's not just cats and dogs that can be microchipped - Tracer microchips can be implanted in most animals, including rabbits, tortoises, reptiles and birds.
Remember, your dog will still need to wear a collar with a tag in public places.
How to get your pet microchipped
If your dog or cat is due for a vaccination or check-up soon, contact your vet in advance to check if your pet is microchipped.
Getting your dog or cat microchipped is as simple as having a vaccination. The chip is tiny, about the size of a grain of rice, and is placed comfortably under the scruff of the neck. Your vet will begin the registration process for you and you'll simply need to verify your details on the database. You can learn more about the process here.
A microchip is only effective if your contact information on the database is accurate and up to date - check your details on Petlog today!
Tracer™ Advance Microchips
Tracer™ Advance microchips are made of a unique biopolymer – making them smaller, stronger and lighter than glass chips. All Tracer chips include:
• Lifetime registration on the Petlog database which is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
• Pet insurance voucher from Petplan for eligible cats, dogs and rabbits*
• Comprehensive information leaflet and pet identification card
Speak With Your Vet About Microchipping Your Pet
Frequently Asked Questions
- ADT Pet Theft Report.
- GOV.UK Microchipping your dog
- Dingman PA, Levy JK, Rockey LE, Crandall MM. Use of visual and permanent identification for pets by veterinary clinics. Vet J. 2014; 201(1):46-50
*Terms, conditions, and excesses apply.
