Microchipping is only effective if chips are registered in an up-to-date database. Poor registration rates mean many microchipped animals are still not reunited with owners when lost or stolen.
A microchipped but unregistered animal offers little welfare benefit over an unchipped animal. Ensuring registration details are accurate and current is as important as the microchipping itself. Lost animals that cannot be reunited with owners spend unnecessary time in shelters or die unnecessarily. Maintaining accurate registration records is an ongoing welfare responsibility.