Companion Animals

Companion Animal Microchipping: Welfare Benefits

Microchipping of companion animals provides welfare benefits through improved return rates after loss and enabling accountability for animal abandonment.

Key Facts

Mandatory microchipping for dogs has been law in England, Wales, and Scotland since 2016
Microchipped pets are significantly more likely to be reunited with their owners after becoming lost
Microchipping enables tracing of animals to their registered owners, supporting anti-cruelty enforcement
Cat microchipping became mandatory in England in June 2024, expanding coverage

Welfare Considerations

Microchipping is a low-cost, high-impact welfare intervention. Lost animals that cannot be identified face extended shelter stays, adoption uncertainty, or euthanasia. The expansion of mandatory microchipping to cats represents meaningful welfare progress.

What You Can Do

Ensure your pet is microchipped and your contact details are kept up to date on the database
Advocate for mandatory microchipping of cats and rabbits in jurisdictions where it is not yet required
Support animal welfare organisations managing microchip databases and reunification services