Why Microchipping Matters

When it comes to keeping your pet safe, microchipping plays an important factor. Not only is it required by the UK government for all dogs, but if your dog were to be lost, your contact details are right there on the chip – meaning vets and animal shelters with a microchip scanner will be able to get your much loved pet back to you. Microchips are typically put in during spaying or neutering while your dog is still under anaesthetic, though the procedure is quick and your dog can be awake during it if need be. 

Here at Perfect Pooches, we are reputable dog breeders who ensure that each and every one of our puppies are microchipped before they leave us to go on their new adventure to their forever home! There are many reasons why microchipping matters, whether you have a smaller breed like a maltipoo, or a full of energy cocker spaniel, keep reading below for more information!

A microchip is a small electronic chip that is inserted under your dog’s skin. It’s roughly the size of a grain of rice and is designed with a number that is unique to your pet, containing all contact information of the owner should they be lost or stolen. Unlike collar tags, a microchip is a permanent form of identification. This is especially important for highly sought after breeds like cavalier spaniels and dachshunds, who are also smaller and more easy to carry away should they be stolen.

As of 2016, it became compulsory for dog owners to have their dog microchipped, not only to help with reunification, but also to track down the owners of dogs who may be aggressive and have attacked a person. Since it is a law, any dog owners found to not be in compliance will be given a short period of time to rectify the situation before facing a fine of up to £500. Luckily for you, if you come to a certified breeder like Perfect Pooches, your puppy will already be microchipped before you take them home!

The procedure for getting your pooch microchipped is extremely straightforward, but it’s important to keep in mind that – as with most medical procedures – there can be side effects. These aren’t typically dangerous and some are extremely rare, but it’s still important to be aware of. Some of these side effects include:

Chip Migration: After implantation, a microchip may migrate away from the site, making it more difficult to pick up with scanners. However, if a thorough and proper microchip scan takes place, it should still be picked up by the sensitive scanners. It is rare for a microchip to migrate to a region that cannot be picked up on a chip scanner. 

Inflammation and Hair Loss: It’s to be expected that the implantation area may be a little inflamed and sore for your pet after being microchipped, but your dog may scratch or chew the area afterwards, which can lead to hair loss in the area. We recommend utilising either a hard or soft cone to prevent further irritation. 

Infection: Another important reason to prevent your dog from further irritating the site of implantation is to decrease the risk of infection. As safe as microchipping is, the skin is still broken during the procedure so the area should be kept clean and dry until fully healed. Keep an eye out for redness and other signs of infections, like swelling, bad smells, or fluid.

If you move away from the address registered on your dog’s microchip, or change phone numbers, it’s important to update these details yourself by contacting the database provider. This is also a legal requirement and keeping chip details up to date is the responsibility of the owner to ensure. There are multiple ways to get in touch with the database provider, so that no matter your schedule or availability, this important information can be updated easily.

Every year, thousands of dogs are unable to be reunited with their family due to outdated information in the microchip. Most database providers offer the choice of telephone, email, or post to change your chip information. All you will need is your dog’s microchip number – which can be obtained from the vet if you do not already know it.

One thing you will never need to worry about when you choose to get a well bred, healthy puppy from the team at Perfect Pooches is whether or not your newest family member has their microchips, as all of our puppies go to their new home with their chips and vaccinations up to date! 

We have a range of breeds to choose from, including KC registered dachshunds and cocker spaniels, to our Pedigree Club cavapoos and cockapoos! Get in touch to find out more now!