Microchipping
Puppy buyers
You must make sure the breeder has microchipped the puppy and registered with an approved microchip database, before you take the puppy home. Ask for paperwork to prove they have done this, because enforcement action could be taken against you if your dog is later found to not be microchipped.
Dog owners
As a dog owner you must make sure that:
- your dog is microchipped by a veterinary professional or an implanter who has received government approved training.
- you are registered with an approved microchip database
- you keep the details up to date with an approved database provider.
Puppies must be microchipped and registered with an approved microchip database before 8 weeks old.
If you are found to have not microchipped your dog you will have a warning served and will have 21 days to have the dog microchipped. Failure to do so may result in prosecution and a court fine.
You must also keep your details up to date, if you don’t you could be liable to a fine of up to £5,000.
Collars and tags
As a dog owner you must make sure that your dog is wearing a collar and identity tag with your current contact details written on it – when it is on a highway or in a public place.
Contact details must include your name and address (including postcode), including your telephone number is optional.
Failure to have a collar and tag on your dog without reasonable excuse is an offence, and may result in legal proceedings.