Microchips
The 15 digit non-encrypted I SO ( International Organisation for Standardization 11784/11785
Microchips are designed to last approximately 20 years but it is a good idea to get your vet to check the chip once a year to ensure that it is still functioning.
As someone who has moved abroad, I am very aware that conflicting and very often incorrect advice is given regarding what is legally required. I constantly advise checking any information given with as many different independent sources as possible and getting it in writing. Be aware, that the world is full of barrack-room lawyers and “experts” and always remember an ex is a has-been and a spurt is a big drip!!
Regardless of any deficiencies in the system I strongly recommend the insertion of a microchip for cats and dogs and where applicable for other domestic pets.
We need to ensure that firstly we are aware of the enormous benefits of microchipping our pets and secondly the minor deficiencies in the system.
This blog was inspired by the very sad and unfortunate episode that involved a man who fell in love with a stray that appeared on his doorstep. Like me, he lived in Crete. He fed it, took it for long walks and decided that he would adopt it only to find that it was microchipped and the owner wanted his dog back. The man was distraught, but the owner was delighted to find his lost dog.
Under Greek law ownership of a dog or a cat is totally reliant on the animal having a microchip inserted. Even if you have had a dog for years you cannot claim ownership without a registered microchip.
Most people think that there is only one system that operates worldwide. Sadly this is incorrect. In Europe, Canada, South America and Oceania, there is one system, however, in Africa and the United States of America, there is another system. Now the overwhelming majority of dogs do not cross continents but for people who are considering relocating or who have moved then this could be an issue. It is important that you check that wherever you are that the appropriate authorities have access to a multi-function scanner that recognises all systems. Please be aware that if you are crossing continents for relocation there are suggestions that your dog can have two chips. Other advice is that this will cause you severe problems both at the points of departure, transit and arrival. Please check, double-check and then get it confirmed by a separate source. I would be very reluctant to put two chips into my dog and wouldn’t do so without written evidence from all the authorities in every country that I was leaving, in transit, or was my final destination.
Now I am aware that this blog is read worldwide so I cannot speak for other countries’ laws, however, in the UK there is a government website that provides all up-to-date information.
In the USA unfortunately, as I understand it, it’s a lot more complicated.
Let’s start in England
For instance in England (Scotland and Wales have their own laws.) it is mandatory to have dogs microchipped by 8 weeks of age. Failure can make you liable for a £500 fine. The chip must be registered with one of the 18 databases that meet government standards and even if you have microchipped your dog failure to register can again make you liable for a £500 fine. The chip must be fitted by a veterinary surgeon or a trained professional and in England, you can get it done for free at the following.
- Battersea Cats and Dogs Home
- Blue Cross Centres
- Dogs Trust
Assuming you take advantage of this service I am sure a donation would be appreciated.
Your dog is still obliged to wear a collar with your contact details on it.
Furthermore, you are responsible for updating your details should you move for example.
The database company would greatly appreciate it if you inform them when your pet dies. There are now thousands of registrations of pets who have passed on and this just takes up space.
If you are unsure where your pet is registered or you have lost documentation then you can ask any of the following to scan your dog’s chip.
- A veterinary surgeon
- Dog Warden
- A dog rescue centre
Finally please double-check that your veterinary surgeon registers your dog’s chip.
In the USA there is no national database and instead hundreds of registries’ databases and there is no legal requirement to have your dog microchipped. It will be interesting to see what the Supreme Court says if any state decides to introduce a law requiring all dogs to be microchipped. No doubt that there is an amendment to ban that as well!!
In other countries, it is necessary to check what databases are accepted by the government and how to register. Some countries have a single nationwide database but this only applies to a very small number of places worldwide.
Going Abroad
Now we return to the complicated bit. Foreign travel.
We all know that in order to travel to foreign parts your dog’s microchip has to be scanned to ensure that it is in place.
This is supposed to ensure that if lost, the authorities in that country can identify the dog, the owner can report the loss and the two will be reunited.
This is where it gets complicated. The system only works if the information is available to the authorities, veterinary surgeons and animal shelters in the country that you are in.
Now in order for this to be effective the chip needs to be registered. This is where difficulties can arise. In some, countries the registration is sent to a registry who may be the manufacturer, the distributor or a separate entity such as an independent recovery service. Some veterinarians leave the owner to register themselves which can usually be done online.
Some countries have a single nationwide database but this only applies to a very small number of places.
It should be appreciated that the system, only works if people first register their dogs and keep that information updated, in particular, changes to address and telephone numbers.
For those of you who are considering travelling abroad or emigrating it is a good idea to check what the situation is in the country that you are going to. A start may be that country’s embassy. I stress start. Most embassies, in my experience, are not particularly well-informed or reliable sources of information but you might get a result. Social media, plus animal welfare charities and veterinary surgeons in your country of choice can be a source of information. I suggest a belt and braces approach. Even if you are told what the situation is try to get it confirmed from another independent source.
Confused?
Well, generally there are no problems if you remain in the place where your dog’s chip was inserted, assuming that you have kept your records up to date. For those who are moving, extensive research is critical. Best of luck!!
“There is a battle of two wolves inside us all.
One is evil. It is anger, jealousy, greed, resentment, lies, inferiority and ego.
One is good. It is joy, peace, love, hope, humility, kindness, empathy and truth.
The wolf that wins? The one you feed.”
Native American Cherokee proverb