When you need to Microchip

There are three cases when microchipping your cat or dog is mandatory:

• If your cat or dog is under 12 weeks of age when the microchipping laws were introduced in your local council area

• If a cat or dog is being sold or given away
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• If your dog is a declared regulated dog

Microchip information

When an animal is implanted with a microchip, the microchip is given a unique number. The unique number is different to the animal's council registration number, and can be read with a microchip reader without causing distress to the animal.

When the microchip is read, the unique microchip number can be found in a permanent identification device (PID) registry database,where it shows details about the animal,including it's owner and owner's contact details.

If you move house or change your telephone number you should let PID registry know so that they can update your contact details in their records.