Companion Animals

Companion Animal Microchipping and Welfare

Microchipping improves companion animal welfare by enabling rapid reunification with owners and improving outcomes for stray and lost animals.

Key Facts

Microchipping has been mandatory for dogs in England since 2016
Cat microchipping became mandatory in England from 2024
Microchipping dramatically improves the likelihood of reuniting lost animals with their owners
Unclaimed strays without identification face longer shelter stays and higher euthanasia risk
Microchip databases must be kept updated with current owner contact details to be effective

Welfare Considerations

Microchipping is a simple, low-cost welfare intervention that reduces suffering for lost animals and their owners. Mandatory schemes with well-maintained databases maximise welfare benefit.

What You Can Do

Ensure your pets are microchipped and keep your contact details up to date
Check that your pet's microchip is scannable at your annual vet visit
Support campaigns for mandatory microchipping across all companion animal species
Encourage friends and family to microchip their pets
Consider contributing to subsidised microchipping schemes in your area