Since 2016, all dog owners are required by law to have their dogs microchipped and registered on an approved national database.

A microchip is an electronic device, about the size of a grain of rice, that can be inserted under the skin of your dog.  The device contains a unique 15 digit number which can be read with a microchip scanner.  When your dog is microchipped, the person who inserts the microchip (generally your vet) takes your contact details and sends the microchip number, a description of your dog, and your contact details to an approved national database.  The database will store the information so that if your dog is found straying, it can be reunited with you.

When you take your dog to a vet for microchipping, you will need to show the veterinary practice your photographic identification e.g. driver’s licence or passport, and a recent utility bill e.g. electricity or phone, so that they can verify who you are. This is legally required as part of the registration process.

If you sell or transfer ownership of your dog to another person, you must notify the database of the transfer and of the name and contact details of the new owner.  You should also verify the identity of the person to whom you transfer your dog.