Frequently Asked Questions.
Why does my animal need a microchip?
Safety. A microchip is a permanent form of pet identification, helping to identify registered keeper, and give best chance of re-unification, should a loss or theft occur.
How old does my animal have to be to get a microchip?
Microchips can be implanted at any age, but it can be more comfortable for the animal aged 6 weeks plus. UK 2016 microchipping law states, all dogs/puppies should be microchipped and registered by 8 weeks of age.
Should my new puppy already be microchipped?
Yes. All breeders must have their litters implanted with microchips and their details registered to an approved database by 8 weeks old. Puppies should go to their new homes from 8 weeks old, including their microchip and all relevant paperwork.
The breeder already registered, do I need to register?
Yes. All pets must be registered to their current keeper.
Do cats need microchipping?
As of yet, UK microchipping law only applies to dogs, but microchipping still gives optimum chance of lost/stolen pet reunification. The laws for cats are due to change in 2023.
Does my dog need a tag?
The Control of Dogs Order 1992 states that any dog in a public place must wear a collar with the name and address (including postcode) of the keeper, engraved or written on it, or engraved on a tag. Your telephone number is optional, but gives better chance of reunification also.
Where can I get my dog microchipped?
Implanting a microchip, should only be performed, by a trained implanter. My Animal Trace have dedicated, fully trained ambassadors to perform this. We also provide necessary training courses for those wanting to gain a personal qualification.
Is a microchip proof of ownership?
No. The legislation states the primary person with whom dog resides with, is the keeper, not the owner. A registered keeper has legal responsibility of the dog, should the dog go missing, or for any lawful purposes i.e fouling etc.
Can implanters order free microchips?
Yes, under the terms that any free microchips sent out to an implanter are still deemed as the property of My Animal Trace and are not swapped with any other type/brand of microchips from any other companies, otherwise the person that agreed to swap our microchips may be liable for prosecution.
What is the cost for breeders to register microchips?
Breeders can register litters chipped with My Animal Trace microchips by emailing us the relevant litter information including microchip numbers, with your name and address to [email protected] for pre-registration.
What is the cost for the pet keeper to register their microchip?
The cost to register/transfer the details for a microchip to a new keeper is £30.00 for the lifetime of the pet, with no hidden charges for moving house or changing phone number. New keepers can also opt to pay £35.00 which includes a pet photo I.D card detailing the pets info alongside keeper details.
I changed address or phone number, do I need to update this?
If you move home or change contact number, please email us with you original order number and/or microchip number and we will update your details on the system.
UK 2016 Microchipping legislation states, that owners are liable to fines, of up to £500, if dogs are not microchipped and details registered with an approved database. Keeper details must be kept up to date.
REGISTER YOUR PET
Register now for your lifetime online registration with the option to register your pet QR MAT-TAG.
Keep us updated with any changes to your contact details via [email protected], ensuring you’re abiding by UK laws, and keeping your pet safe!
24/7 HELPLINE
If your pet is lost or stolen, our team is on hand to help 24/7.
Fill in the form below to flag a pet lost or stolen. For general enquiries please email [email protected]
SECURE DATABASE
Registered microchips are stored in our database instantly and securely. When registering, you can also activate your MAT-TAG, which includes pinpoint location of a lost pet, with reunification benefits. A finder can scan the QR code on a lost pets tag, with any mobile device, and follow the steps to reunite the pet with their family!