What is a microchip?

A microchip is a tiny device, about the size of a grain of rice, which encodes a unique number that links your pet to you. The chip is implanted under the skin, between the shoulder blades. This process takes seconds and is no more painful than an injection. The number on the chip can be read by a scanner, rather like a barcode reader. All vets, most animal rescue centres, most animal wardens and some police stations have scanners. If an animal is found to be microchipped, the person wielding the scanner can ring the central data base (usually Petlog), which holds your contact details. (Remember, though, to update your details with Petlog if you move house!)

For more information and FAQs, read the articles on `Microchipping dogs' and `Microchipping cats' in the Pet Forums Pet Encyclopedia.

Why should I have my pet microchipped?

Microchipping is a legal requirement to obtain a pet passport. It is also part of responsible ownership. Imagine that your pet is injured on the road while out of your sight and taken to a vet for treatment. Who will pay for this treatment if the vet is unable to discover the animal's owner? Who will re-home it if its owner cannot be found? Fortunately many animal welfare organisations may be able to help in an emergency; but it cannot be right to rely on such charities for such a purpose.

Most importantly. microchipping is also vital for peace of mind. Dogs must legally wear collars, and a collar with a microchip tag is a theft deterrent. Even if the dog loses its collar, the chip still links your dog back to you. Cats often refuse to wear collars. Cats also wander and they have been known to get into strange cars or vans, ending up miles away. Without that microchip, the chances of getting your beloved pet back are seriously reduced.

How much does it cost to have my pet microchipped?

Chipping typically costs about £25 - £30 when done by a vet. RSPCA Oxon Branch holds regular microchipping events throughout Oxfordshire where you can bring your cat, dog or rabbit along and have it chipped for only £10.

Ring our microchipping coordinator Katherine on 0845 604 5507 for details of our upcoming events.

NEW SERVICE: We are now able to offer home chipping visits for only £12 per animal in most areas of Oxfordshire.

Ring Katherine 0845 604 5507 if you are in the Woodstock or Oxford City area, or Ingrid 0845 604 5507 if you are in the Didcot or Abingdon area.

Go to Action on Missing Cats and Dog Theft Action to help campaign to make microchips even more effective.