Identification tag / microchip
When in public, a dog must carry a collar tag with its owner’s name and address. You can be heavily fined if your dog is not tagged.
Microchip
Every dog over eight weeks old must be microchipped, and the keepers’ details registered on an approved database.
You can be fined up to £500 if your dog isn’t microchipped.
Dogs will still be required by law to wear a collar and tag with the owner’s name and contact details on it when it is in a public place after compulsory microchipping is introduced.
How is a dog microchipped?
A chip the size of a grain of rice is placed under the dog’s skin. The chip carries an unique number which is connected to the owner’s details.
Dog wardens, vets, kennels and others have scanners. If the dog gets lost, it can be scanned and the owner can be contacted immediately.
Where to get your dog microchipped
- go to your local vet – it usually costs between £15 and £25
- keep an eye out for special offers from groups like the Dogs Trust (www.dogstrust.org.uk)
Your dog’s microchip must be fitted by a trained professional.
Keeping the microchip information up to date
You must keep your dog’s microchip information up to date, eg if you move house you should contact the database company your dog is registered with to update your details. You might be charged for updating your dog's microchip information.
More information