There are different requirements for England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. For further information please select the relevant option below.
In England, as of June 2024, it is compulsory for all cats and dogs to be microchipped, dogs by the age of 8 weeks and cats by the age of 20 weeks. In Scotland and Wales it is compulsory for all dogs to be microchipped by the age of 8 weeks.
Please select the relevant option below to learn more.
A quick overview for veterinary practices and welfare organisations about the compulsory microchipping legislation:
Animals must be microchipped by the age specified above, or before first transfer if younger
Breeders must microchip and register their details on a compliant database before transferring to a new keeper
Pet owners must ensure that their contact details are kept up-to-date on a compliant microchip database
Should you find an adverse reaction you should report it to the VMD
You are not being asked to enforce the legislation, but it is good to advise pet owners and breeders of their responsibility
For information on how you can register and search for pet microchips in the UK, please click here
A breeder in terms of this legislation is anyone who owns a pet that has had a litter of puppies or kittens. A quick overview for dog or cat breeders about the compulsory microchipping legislation:
Animals must be microchipped by the age specified above, or before you transfer it to the new keeper
You must be the first registered contact on the database and be recorded as the breeder
A quick overview for pet owners about the compulsory microchipping legislation:
Your pet must be microchipped by the age specified above, or before first transfer if younger
Breeders must microchip and register their details on a compliant database before transferring to a new keeper
You must ensure that your contact are details kept up-to-date on a compliant microchip database
If your pet is not microchipped and registered on a compliant microchip database you could be served with a notice requiring this to happen by your local authority. Failure to comply could result in a fine of up to £500
In 2020 microchipping became mandatory for all horses, ponies and donkeys in the UK. If your animal is found without a microchip you can be fined up to £200.
Contact your vets to ensure the animal has a microchip implanted and make sure you have a note of this number
Ensure the animal is registered on the Central Equine Database and has a valid passport.
Identify the microchip database you are registered with and ensure your details are up to date by clicking here
If you have any further questions about compulsory microchipping for pets you can contact us here
