Microchipping your pet

You can microchip your pet to help identify it.

This means:

• implanting a microchip with a number that appears when your pet is scanned
• registering your contact details on a database

This gives you a better chance of finding your pet if it’s:

• lost
• stolen
• injured

It also helps identify pets that are abused or aggressive.

You can also microchip other pets like:

• cats
• rabbits
• horses

Where to get your pet microchipped

You can get your pet microchipped at the vet.

These local councils also offer pet microchipping:

• Dundee City Council
• North Lanarkshire Council

Cost

You will need to pay for:

• the microchipping procedure – this will usually cost £10 to £30
• adding your details to an approved database – this will usually cost £15 to £30

Some vets may include microchipping in pet health plans.

If you’re struggling with microchipping costs

Some charities offer free or reduced-cost microchipping, especially if you’re on benefits. Ask your vet for advice.

Legal requirements for microchipping your dog

You must microchip your dog by the time it’s 8 weeks old. This means:

• implanting a microchip that meets the technical standard – your vet will know how to do this
• registering your contact details on an approved database

You must also keep your details up to date. Find out how to update your pet’s microchip. 

Adding your details to a database

Each microchip has a unique number that shows up when your dog is scanned. This number identifies your dog.

You must register this microchip number with a database that meets Scottish Government standards. 

Exemptions

A vet can exempt your dog from microchipping for health reasons. This might include:

• a serious illness
• an infection at the implant site
• a condition that affects blood clotting
• being too small

An exemption could be permanent or temporary. For example, a puppy that’s exempt for being too small could be microchipped later once they’ve grown.

If your dog is exempt, your vet must give you a signed exemption certificate. This includes information about:

• you
• your dog
• your vet
• how long the exemption is for

If someone else takes ownership of your dog while it’s exempt, you must pass the certificate on to them.

Getting a dog that’s already microchipped

When you get a dog from someone else, the dog should either:

• already be microchipped and registered with the current owner
• have a microchip exemption certificate

You should update your new dog’s microchip with your details as soon as possible.

Find out how to update your pet’s microchip. 

Getting a dog from a breeder

When you get a dog from a breeder, you should get a form or code to update the microchip details. This lets you register your contact information with the microchip database.

If your pet has a problem with their microchip

If your pet has a bad reaction to their microchip, or you think it’s moved or stopped working, contact your vet. They’ll report the issue and recommend a course of action.