microchipping_of

micro-chipping of pets

In June 2002, the Government proposed a scheme for every dog, and eventually every cat, to be identified by either a tattoo or microchip. When you hear about an owner's heartache when they have lost their pet or the cruelty inflicted through ignorance or just down right maliciousness do you feel sadness, anger or outrage? Good news for good owners - bad news for those that aren't. Identification means traceability!

Microchipping uses Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID) technology and cannot be copied, tampered with, fade or be removed. microchips are made to ISO 11784/85 standard, and are readable by European countries as well. The chip is inserted into the fatty area between the shoulder blades. The needle actually houses the microchip and is therefore larger than a conventional needle, however, a clever design allows it to pierce the skin easily with little discomfort. The pet in question should feel no more discomfort from a microchip implant than from a conventional injection.

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) has issued a statement that appropriately trained non-veterinarians are allowed to microchip dogs, cats, rabbits and ferrets. As the Pet Passport Scheme already stipulates that all dogs and cats entering the UK must be microchipped. This is important if you want to take your pet out of the UK, as your pet maybe able to leave the country without a passport. BUT will not be allowed back to the UK without going into quarantine unless you have got a pet-passport.

What would you do if you lost your pet either from home or, worst, away from home where your pet can wonder round getting even more lost trying to find there way home? Well, if they are micro-chipped you make a phone call to pet-log. When your pet is found and taken to a vet or pet warden they are scanned. Once the micro-chip number is known, it can be checked on-line to see if that number has been reported missing, if so arrangements are made to contact, confirm the owner and reunite.