Microchipping

Whilst every dog owner is legally obliged to ensure that their dog is wearing a collar or identification disc, thousands have take a much more positive step to ensure their much loved pet can be identified through microchip technology. Over 1 million dogs and cats have been microchipped and the numbers continue to grow at an estimate of over 5,000 a week.

The microchip is the size of a grain of rice and is coded with a unique number that can be read by a scanner. There is now an international network of scanners held by dog wardens, vet practices and animal welfare organisations such as the RSPCA and the National Canine Defence League.

Using a special designed implanting device, the microchip is injected through a sterile needs under the pet's skin between the shoulder blades. Most pets feel very little or short-lived discomfort. Once inserted, the pet's tissue surround the chip preventing movement and the chip's biocompatible glass cover prevents rejection.

The chip works when a scanner is passed over it. The scanner produces a low frequency radio wave that passively activates the chip, allowing the unique number to be read on the scanner.

All owners details relating to the unique number in each chip are registered with Pet Log. Pet Log is a national computerised data base run by the Kennel Club and is accessible 24 hours a day. On reading a chip, the scanning operator contacts Pet Log in order to identify the pet and the owner is then contacted to be reunited with their pet.

The microchips which Ashwood use comply to the ISO Standard 11784 and 11785 (FDXB chips) and conform to the requirements of the Pet Travel Scheme. Chipping costs between around £15 - £20 plus VAT (as at 01.01.02).