All you need to know about microchipping
It's a legal requirement for your your dog to be microchipped. Discover all you need to know.
It is a legal requirement to have all dogs in Ireland microchipped. Dog owners are now legally required to be in possession of a Microchipping Certificate, which is a printed legal document confirming the information that is registered on a government-approved database.
To be fully compliant with the legislation you must take the following 3 steps:
- Have your dog microchipped by a registered implanter.
- Have your details registered on a Government approved database (the microchip implanter is responsible for this).
- Be in possession of a printed Microchipping Certificate.
At present there are only four Government approved microchipping database providers in Ireland:
- Animark
- Fido
- Irish Kennel Club
- Microdog ID Ltd (Irish Coursing Club)
What is a microchip?
A microchip is a small electronic chip, around the size of a grain of rice, which is implanted under the dog's skin and contains a unique number that can be read by a scanner.
The dog owner's contact details relating to each number are logged on a central database, so should the dog ever go missing or be stolen it can be scanned by the authorities and returned to his owner swiftly and safely.
It is vital that the owner takes responsibility for updating their details with the database should their circumstances change.
How do I get my dog’s microchip number?
Your vet may have your dog’s microchip number on file so give the practice a call. If this is not the case, simply have your dog scanned at a veterinary practice, local authority dog pound or animal welfare organisation.
Commonly asked questions about microchipping
Do all dog adverts have to have a microchip number displayed?
Yes! Anyone advertising a dog for sale or supply MUST clearly display the dog's microchip number in the advert. This …
Will it hurt my dog?
No anaesthetic is required and the procedure should cause no more discomfort than a standard vaccination.
The microchip …
Where can I get my dog microchipped?
Most veterinary practices in Ireland can microchip your dog, along with a growing number of Local Authorities and …
How much does will it cost to get my dog microchipped?
You can expect to pay €20-€50 to have your dog microchipped at the vet. Alternatively you may want to contact your …
At what age can a dog be microchipped?
Dogs of any age can be injected with a microchip.
However you should consult your vet and ask their advice.
How long does a microchip last?
Once injected under the skin of your dog, the microchip becomes encased by a thin layer of protein which anchors it in …
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