Microchipping

In England dogs and cats must be microchipped, and a microchip is the first step for any pet travelling abroad. It takes a few seconds and can be done at home.

A grey kitten on a blanket at home while a gloved hand scans for its microchip

Who it is for

  • Puppies and kittens
  • Rescue pets without a chip, or with a chip that can't be read
  • Pets getting ready to travel

How it works

  1. 1
    Scan first

    We scan your pet for an existing chip, in case one is already there.

  2. 2
    Fit the chip

    A quick injection under the skin, between the shoulder blades.

  3. 3
    Check it reads

    The chip is scanned again to make sure it works.

  4. 4
    Register it

    The chip has to be registered on a database with your details; we tell you how.

Good to know

  • If your pet will travel, the microchip has to be fitted before the rabies vaccination.

Related: animal health certificates (pet travel), vaccinations & parasite control and home vet visits. We cover Sussex, Surrey and West London, from Brighton to Wembley.

Microchipping: questions

Is microchipping a legal requirement?

In England, dogs and cats must be microchipped and registered.

Can you check if my pet already has a chip?

Yes, we always scan first.