We would really appreciate it if you look through the FAQ’s before contacting us.  If your question is not answered in the FAQ’s please do get in touch with us by calling 0207 483 1118 or using our contact form  Thank you.

GENERAL MICROCHIP INFORMATION

I am travelling abroad; do your microchips comply with the ISO standards?
Yes, they comply with ISO Standard 11784/5.  The chip protocol is FDX-B.

Can we use your microchips for the Pet Passport Scheme?
Yes, they are perfect for the Pet Passport.  They can also be read by all ISO scanners.

Yikes! Our pet's microchip can't be read - do you have a scanner that can read all chip brands?

Yes!  You can either buy or hire the scanner.  Call us to discuss.  0207 483 1118.  Hire is £5 for 7 days + DHL both ways.

Why are your chips known as Micro-transponders?
Because they are under 12mm in length.  When it comes to microchips, it is generally accepted that small is best.

What is actually on the microchip?
The standard ISO chip is 15 digits long.  The first three numbers denote the manufacture – we are 956.  There are then a series of noughts and then 6, 7 or 8 digits.  The chips are ‘read only’ so cannot be re-programmed.  For techies, the protocol is FDX-B.

Can anyone buy your microchips?
If you have been ‘appropriately trained’ or a veterinary surgeon and have an Implanter Code, you can purchase our microchips.  We will even offer you a free implant gun so the transition from another brand to pet-detect does not cost you anything. Many people change over to us - and site the difference in needle sharpness and the implant gun being easier to use. We like to think we offer better value for money too - including our Chip Fairy replacements and  our 'back-office' service is second to none.

What is the Chip Fairy?

Well, our Chip Fairy replaces all mis-fired chips - you know the ones we mean - the ones that didn't go to plan and end up 'wasted'.  The Chip Fairy asks that you return the chip/s (dispose of the needle in the sharps box) and tape the chip /s to a piece of card and return to The Pet Chip Company Ltd, 75 Haverstock Hill, London NW3 4SL and within a wave of the wand you will receive a free replacement.  Magical!  Actually, we use the loose chip for our Chips4Tack saddle ID project.

Do you use the Petlog database?

Yes.  We only recommend the Petlog database.  Petlog is based in the UK and operates 365 days per year, is the largest in the UK and run by The Kennel Club, pets are registered for life and their 24/7 telephone number is 08444 633 999.  Why even consider the others?  If you wish to check which database your pet's microchip resides on, you can do so free of charge at www.europetnet.com or www.petmaxx.com

If you use IdentiChip, PetCode, Avid or Pet Protect you are NOT registered with Petlog or the European Pet Network. One database only registers your pet for 8 years and then you must re-subscribe!  Another is an insurance company whose sole purpose is to get an annual insurance subscription out of the pet owner.  Surprised huh?    If you want to have your pet registered with Petlog, if it isn't already, simply call them on: 08444 633 999.  They will do their best to help you.  For more information see below - Databases.

Are your microchips guaranteed?

Yes, of course.  In fact, all our equipment is guaranteed against manufacturing faults.  Most of what we sell is made in the UK or in Europe.

Can I return microchips to you?
Yes, provided they are in a re-saleable condition.  We will refund the full  price you paid for them.  There is a £10 admin fee for changing the back-track database.

What is the minimum number of chips I can buy?
Chips are sold in boxes of 10.  We don't force you into contracts - just order whatever quantity you want.  Remember you get a significant saving when you register the animals onto the Petlog database yourself.  We call this 'on-line registration'. You need an Implanter code to purchase microchips.

Can I buy just one chip?
Not really, but if you twist our arm – and provided the chip is being sent to a vet (he or she will need our implant gun) then we will help out where needed.

We are a Rescue organisation – are there any discounts for us?
Yes, lots.  Rescues should contact us by telephone for a quote on microchips and our training course.

How do I transfer the pet details into my name?

You will need the microchip number which should be easy to get if you take the pet into any surgery and ask the receptionist to scan it for you.  You need this number before you contact Petlog (08444 633 999) to arrange for the database amendment.  You may be asked for a copy of the original Petlog certificate or details of the previous owner. Petlog do charge for amending the database, however this is a one off payment for the life of your pet and you will receive lots of additional benefits over and above your basic microchip registration.

DATABASES

Are there databases other than Petlog?

In the UK, there are now four.  It is our opinion that this should never have been allowed to happen and we think it's called 'Money Talks' :)  Petlog is by far the biggest and is run in the UK by The Kennel Club. Our question is why any implanter would use a microchip that is logged onto an obscure database? Some of these databases are based abroad.  We would like to encourage everyone to ask their supplier if they are associated with Petlog - if not, then change over to a chip supplier who is - us for instance :)  Petlog operate 24/7, are based in Aylesbury and are Founder members of the of the European Pet Network which means that is you lose your pet in mainland Europe you still have a very good chance of being reunited with it. Petlog also run and promote Microchipping Month every June.

AVID opted out of using the Petlog database altogether in favour of their own exclusive database - held in the USA.  AnimalCare (brand name IdentiChip), Petcode and Virbac all use the AniBase database operated by AnimalCare Inc, although they liaise with Petlog, Petlog is not allowed to view their records.  If you wish to express your view on this situation, please do get in touch with the database your chip resides on - go to:

www.europetnet.com or www.petmaxx.com and key in the microchip number.

What is the fee for life-long registration onto Petlog?

The registration fee is generally part of the price of the microchip.  Depending on how the Implanter registers the pet onto the Petlog database they pay as little as £1.25 (+vat) per pet for life-long registration.  The implantation of the chip is of course on top of that

Are there any further charges for my pet to remain on the Petlog database?
No!  Once your pet is registered, there are no further fees to pay - UNLESS you move address.  Amendments to the Petlog database (such as moving address or pet ownership) on the ‘basic’ service will incur a small fee, however this is a one off payment for life, which includes their Petlog Premium Lost and found Service currently on offer for £10 for life after which all amendments are FREE.

What is Petlog Premium?
Petlog Premium is a Lost and Found service.  If you have upgraded to Petlog Premium then you will be entitled to a whole host of benefits including: 30 mile radius alert of where your pet went missing, download of lost pet posters, addition of 2^nd carer/holiday information, collar tags, SMS text direct to database if your pet goes missing and much more:- Please visit their website: http://www.petlogpremium.org.uk

I have a horse and wish to register him onto a database – which one shall I use?
Please use the National Equine database - www.nedonline.co.uk

I have lost my pet – what should I do?

Contact Petlog asap 08444 633 999 and let them know.  They will flag your pet's record with a missing marker, advise you on what else you can do to help find your pet.

Be aware that at this stressful time, you can become vulnerable to SCAMS where the so-called helpful sites are more interested in signing you up for insurance, products, DNA profiling etc.  One such company, now defunct, was The Missing Pets Bureau.  By all means donate if you feel you have received good, honest service because these sites are normally registered charities and rely on donations - but do not pay any money for promises of help or services you don't need. Call Petlog on 08444 633 999 - if your chip is registered with them they will advise you and there's no charge.

I have found a stray pet – what should I do?

Firstly, thank you for taking him or her in - your action could save a lot of heart-ache. You should take the pet to a local veterinary centre or rescue or anyone who owns a microchip scanner.  Ask them to scan the animal to see if it has been microchipped.  If they are a veterinary centre/dogwarden/welfare centre they will probably contact Petlog for you, if not note down the number carefully and contact Petlog on 08444 633 999, they will assist in getting the pet home safely.  Other genuine sites are www.dogtheftaction.com www.PetSearch.com and  www.doglost.co.uk  There may be others of course.

And thank you again - it's good to know people care.

Petlog have changed their telephone number – why?
All 0870 numbers have now changed to 08444 – it is new Ofcom legislation.  The old number will still work, but you will be directed through to 08444 633 999. 

I want to change the details (address / ownership) for my pet - how do I do that?

Call Petlog first 08444 633 999.  If the microchip is registered on their database they will assist you.  If the chip number resides on another database (All these brands are NOT on Petlog - Identichip, AVID, Petcode, Virbac) Petlog will advise you of the appropriate number to call.  These companies chose not to be on Petlog.  If you wish to change your pet's registration to the Petlog database - you can, just speak to Petlog and they will assist you to do that.  There is small fee.

TRAINING COURSE INFORMATION

Do I have to bring an animal to the course?
Unfortunately, we are not able to supply animals for chipping.

In order to demonstrate to the vet that you are competent to microchip companion animals you must chip at least one animal on the day of the course, but preferably two or three.  The vet will offer one to one guidance.  He or she will also sign a certificate for you on the day of the course. 

You can bring one, two or three animals on the day.  You are able to microchip dogs, cats, ferrets and rabbits.  The animals must be healthy, friendly and at least 8 weeks old for large and medium sized animals and 9/10 weeks for small breeds and kittens. 

In addition, you can bring along an Observer to look after or hold the animals for you.

How long do the courses last for?
They all begin at 1pm and finish around 4pm. We ask you to be there by 12.30.

What’s special about your training course?
Well, without blowing our own trumpet too much - we are the largest Training Provider for teaching non-veterinarians to microchip companion animals. We've been around since early 2000 so we're well experienced and have over 130 vets on the books to help with the courses.

We always have an experienced vet present throughout the course.  Some companies have a vet ‘visit’ and then disappear, or worse still, don't have a vet at all (if a company offers a 'train you at home' method they definitely don't have a vet present, do they :).  The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) state that non-veterinarians must be ‘appropriately trained’ and WE  like to interpret those words as being taught by a vet.  It keeps the standards high for one thing. Your reputation, confidence and enjoyment depend upon being taught properly.  Your training is an investment (you'll make back the fee in no time in any case) so go for the best level of training - that's always going to be a proper training course and with a vet.

You do NOT have to purchase stock in order to attend our course.  There's no pressure on you to purchase stock - ever. Remember, we ALWAYS have a vet present ALL of the time AND we are entirely open with our prices - check them out and compare - we try to be the most competitive at all times.  Our chips are made in Germany and the quality is built in.  We also replace any wasted chips (see Chip Fairy) and you will always have a Consultant Vet if you have a question.  Needle sharpness is paramount to an easy implantation - many of the other systems do not come close to Trovan/ AEG technology. 

Once you have completed our training course and if you purchase our chipping system, we become your personal ‘back office’ and you have access to our collective expertise and of course that of our consultant vet if need be.  There's no such thing as a daft question.  Everyone is treated in a friendly, informative way because we want to be helpful.  If we're helpful you may want to recommend us to someone else - it all makes perfect sense - doesn't it :)

You can attend a re-fresher course at any time, anywhere, and that is free of charge of course.

You can bring along a friend to the course - and we call that person your Observer – there’s no charge for an Observer.  Your Observer can help hold your pets, (BTW, we sometimes ask your Observer to hold other animals as well but only if they are willing to do this) they can come into the classroom to listen or look after your pets whilst you are in class.

Many students come on our course through recommendation by a friend, colleague or forum - money can't buy that :)

Some of our courses are held in village community halls, colleges, universities and even teaching hospitals but regardless of the venue, you will be treated with respect, and you will learn a new, interesting skill in a supportive, structured and enjoyable setting.  Being part of a group means that you can learn from watching others, swap experiences and be focused on leaning.  Remember, you have a vet present throughout, and they are dedicated to helping you become the best implanter.  In a proper teaching environment you are away from family distractions and you can concentrate on learning.

Can I bring a friend with me?
Yes, we call your friend an Observer because they can come into the classroom and help to hold your animals or they can look after your pets outside.  There’s no charge for Observers.

I hate needles – do you think I can complete the course?
No-one likes needles (or if they do they’d be a bit odd) but we explain how everything works, how to hold the implant gun, where the entry site is etc etc AND the vet is right there holding the animal for you, so you get one-to-one guidance from an expert.  Once you’ve done your first chipping you will see it's not as difficult as you first imagined.

Do I have to write anything during the course?
You have to complete the Petlog registration form with the owner’s details and the pet’s details.  You do not have to take notes unless you wish to.  You will be given a Manual.  

Do I have to bring anything to the course other than my pets?
No.  We supply everything.  We offer a soft drink at the beginning of each class - relax it's the best way to learn.  The course is very interactive and we encourage questions or comments at any stage.

My pet is on heat can I still bring her to the course?
It is preferable to leave her at home, but if she is easy to control with males around her then please tell the tutor and vet upon your arrival, and they will arrange for her to be chipped away from the other animals.  If in doubt always ask the tutor or vet.

I want to bring my breeding queen – is there any way she can be chipped away from the other cats?
Yes, just let the tutor and vet know when you arrive and they will chip her in isolation.

What animals can I bring to the course?
You can bring along dogs, cats, rabbits and ferrets.  We microchip in strict order so that everyone is safe and happy.  Please .make sure that your pet is under your control at all times.

All my animals are all microchipped – can I still do the course?
In order to show the vet that you are competent to microchip companion animals you have to microchip at least one animal, although we prefer if you chip two or even three. The vet then signs a certificate for you and that is recognised by Petlog (UK Kennel Club) that you have been appropriately trained.  You cannot complete the course if you do not demonstrate your new skill.

Which animals am I allowed to microchip when I complete the course?
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) issued a statement that said ‘appropriately trained’ NON-veterinary implanters may microchip dogs and cats (and small furries). Horses, reptiles and birds must be microchipped by a vet.

I want to attend your training course – what qualifications do I need?
You don’t need to be a veterinary nurse or trained in any type of veterinary procedures to attend one of our microchipping courses.  Having said that, the course is designed for those people who are involved with breeding dogs, cats, rabbits or ferrets, or who are dog trainers, kennels and catteries, rescue organisations, dog wardens, pet shops, groomers etc.   

Microchipping is not a 'start-up' business opportunity in itself, but is a nice add-on to an already established pet-related business or breeding hobby.  Rescues see huge benefits from chipping the pets in their care as this is a tried and tested way of generating income.

I am a V.N. and already know how to microchip – how can I get an Implanter Code?
Please ask your vet to write a short fax stating you are competent to microchip companion animals and fax it to us – 0207 586 0080.  We will call the vet for verification and then when you place your first order we will issue an Implanter Code to you.  You can always come on the training course - every VN learns a lot more than in the surgery :)

The training venue I wish to attend is ‘Full’ – can I go on a Waiting List?
Sometimes our courses are fully booked.  Yes, you can go on the Waiting List – just tick the Waiting List button when you complete your form. If anyone cancels we will be in touch with you.  

Your details will be entered onto our course database, and once we have confirmation of the next course date, we will write to you to ask if you wish to attend. Only when we have another course date, or someone cancels, and you have confirmed that date is suitable for you, will we send you an official confirmation email.  That way there is no confusion.  People do cancel, so there is always a chance you can get onto your preferred course.  You are welcome to call us at any time for an up-date.  If we find a lot of people on the Waiting List we will endeavour to hold a double course.  We have 2 vets present.

How often do you hold the course in any one location?
Normally every 5 or 6 months in any one location. Sometimes we hold double courses if the Waiting List is long enough and we can employ a second vet.  In this situation we can have up to 22 students but there will be ample opportunity to have quality time with the vets.  Each vet will have their own 'chipping station' and look after their allocated group.  

When do you take payment for the course?
Once you have successfully completed the course.  We usually take payment the following Tuesday.  You have to provide us with your payment details when booking (cheques within 7 days of booking) so we are ready when the times comes.

What if I fail the course?
Most people pass, so do look on the bright side – but should you not pass you will NOT be charged and you will be invited to come back on the next one.  

I have to cancel my place on the course – how do I do that?
Simply call or email us.  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 0207 483 1118.  You must let us know if you can’t attend so that we can fill the vacancy.  Oftentimes, there is someone who is happy to step in at short notice.  There is no charge for cancellation. See below for the non attendance rule.

I did not attend your last course although I confirmed, can I come on another one?
No.  We keep a record of all ‘No Shows’ and each registration is checked against that list.  Sorry but this is a strict rule without exception.

I have lost my course Certificate – how do I get another one?
Contact us on 0207 483 1118.  If you need another certificate there is a £10 admin charge.  If you simply need confirmation that you have been trained by us, for insurance purposes for instance, we can send you a letter and of course there’s no charge for that :)

We are a Rescue organisation – do we receive any discount for the course?
Yes, currently it is £30 per person, plus vat. 

What evidence do you require for our Rescue status?

We need the name and address of your rescue.  We offer a discount for rescues and this is offered in good faith - we make periodic checks and if we find people have been using the rescue price chips inappropriately we will immediately refuse further supply, and at our discretion, will refuse further supply of chips on any basis, due to implanter previous misrepresentations and therefore dishonesty.  We take this extremely seriously because we subsidise rescues.

SCANNER INFORMATION

What is the difference between the Universal and the Standard scanners?
The Universal scanner reads ALL known microchip protocols for pets including those from USA and encrypted chips.  The Standard PetScan reads the chips used here in Europe (FDXB and A).

Can I buy a scanner – I’m not an Implanter or vet?
Yes.  It’s a good idea if you are a breeder and wish to know who’s who in the litter.  It’s also ideal if you are travelling and want to make absolutely sure you’re not going to be delayed or worried at the port of entry.  We sell three types of pocket scanner.  Heck, we even hire a scanner if you're desperate - just call us for more information.

What read distance do pocket scanners have?
Normally, pocket scanners have short read distances to the chip, but they should be anywhere between 4 and 8 cms which is well within the distance.

Do you sell a scanner that is for horses?
We sell a couple of scanners that are ideal for reading the microchip inside a horse – try the PetScan or MyPetScanner.   The PetScan will read FDX-B and A, while the MyPetScanner will read the 15 digit chips.  These scanners are good for pets and of course your riding saddles – see www.chips4Tack.com and www.chips4Fish .com

Do you sell bespoke scanners?
Yes!  We supply all sorts of scanners for bespoke applications – we supply just about every zoo in the UK including under-water projects such as coral - surprised huh?  If you have a query just contact us - 0207 483 1118

My scanner does not work as good as it used to – do you have any suggestions?
Yes, change the 9-volt battery.  Only use alkaline batteries never zinc.  Also, scanners don’t like freezing or damp conditions. Scanners have a one year warranty but in our experience they last a heck of lot longer than that.  But they do die eventually.  If your scanner is acting intermittently then it's time to replace it.

I got my scanner wet – it won’t work now – what should I do?
You can try and dry it out (NOT on a radiator or in an oven) and wait until it's fully dry.  Scanners don’t like the rain or being dropped into puddles etc, so you might have to replace it.  If you suffer from ButterFingers think about buying a scanner with a wrist cord (PetScan).

Do you sell second-hand / re-conditioned scanners?
No.  It’s a rarity to get a scanner returned to us - for any reason.  All scanners have a one year warranty in any event.

Can I hire a scanner?
Yes, just call us to discuss - 0207 483 1118. It’s normally £5 a week plus the DHL charge each way.  You pay in full by credit card and we issue a refund when it’s returned.

I want to buy your scanner but I live in Europe – what is the postage?
If you are in mainland Europe we charge the same as in the UK – we send your scanner by AirSure, so that it is traceable.  However if it's outside an AirSure area, we will make enquiries and quote you delivery at cost.

MISCELLANEOUS

My dog has lost it's metal collar tag - can I buy a replacement?

Some implanters give you a metal collar tag once they have microchipped your pet. If this is lost please visit your local pet shop or Mr Minute and ask them if they can make you a re-placement.  Metal tags last for approximately 5 years.  You will need your name, mobile number and postcode on one side and the Petlog telephone number on the other  - 08444 633 999. We do not supply one-off tags.

We use another brand of microchips - can we use the pet-detect Petlog registration forms?

No.

We have a problem in our area for animals being stolen - is there anything we can do to reduce the risk?

Yes!!  Get to know your local Crime Prevention Officer.  Every mobile phone has a camera - learn how to use it.  Erect signs on your property stating your animals are microchipped and therefore traceable (we sell these signs).  Alert your council if you see an unusual community setting up in a caravan site or in a waste ground area. Be vigilant.  Remember, no-one cares about you or your property and animals as much as you do. It is sometimes tempting when things get furious - but never put your life at risk for a pet - stay calm - you can always fight another day.

O.M.G. - We're in Spain (just use whatever country you are in here) and the local vet does not have a scanner that reads the chip inside my pet and we're travelling soon - help!!

We can send a scanner to you that reads ALL known microchips for animals.  It's £5 per week plus DHL courier both ways arranged by us. Allow up to 4 - 7 days if you are in Europe or next day if in the UK.  Talk to us!!  ++ 44 (0)207 483 1118

We are always up-dating the FAQ’s.