Moving house can be an exciting but also stressful time. If you’ve moved house recently and have a cat or dog, then one to-do you should add to your Change of Address checklist, is to update your pet’s microchip details. This is really important so that you can be contacted and reunited with you if they happen to go missing.
Since 2016 it is a legal requirement for your dog to be microchipped. The microchip must be working, and contact details must be up to date to avoid being fined.
First, find your pet’s microchip number
This is a long number often between 10-15 digits, and can sometimes include letters. You should have received some paperwork and a certificate when the microchip was implanted and registered to the pet microchip database. If you rescued your pet, it may be in the paperwork you received from them. The microchip number is often recorded in your pet’s vaccination card or pet passport, as well as any pet insurance documents. If you can’t find it, then your vet should have a record of it.
You will then need to find out which database your microchip is stored on.
You may have this if you still have the paperwork and certificate given to you when the chip was implanted. If not then, you can check by searching on the Check-a-chip by PETtrac website. This will provide details of ways you can get in touch with them to update your details – usually by phone or by creating an online account.
Next, update the details!
There may be an administration fee charged by the microchip company for updating your address or owner details. Some companies charge each time you move house or amend the details, others offer an upgrade to a paid plan that allows unlimited changes over the life of your pet.
Don’t forget that even if you’ve only moved close by, your dog will be in unfamiliar territory. They could be scared by new noises, or they may be really keen to investigate their new area so if they accidentally escape. So, by making sure that their microchip details are up to date, they can be returned home safely. Dogs can be spooked, whether it’s fireworks or traffic noises, it’s important to have a safeguard.
Of course, it’s not just accidental escapes that a microchip covers. In the unfortunate case that your pet may be stolen, microchipping is important to be able to prove your ownership of your pet.
Your house and pet moving checklist
So make sure you add microchipping to your house moving checklist. With all the other bills and documentation, it’s easy to get lost in the mix. But it’s an important thing to keep in mind, like finding a new vet, if you’re heading to pastures new. You can enjoy peace of mind and avoid unnecessary fines, with relatively little fuss.
Dr Laura Sullivan MRCVS
Vet Help Direct
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