What is a microchip?
A microchip is an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) device. It is either 8mm or 12mm long and is programmed with a unique 15-digit number. A microchip is implanted underneath the skin between the shoulder blades in dogs, cats, rabbits and ferrets. petDetect Trovan microchips are laser programmed. When a microchip scanner is passed over the area of the microchip, it transmits a radio signal to the microchip which then responds with its own radio signal that the reader decodes and displays as the 15-digit number. The microchip is only activated when a scanner is passed over it and otherwise remains inactive. Your details are registered against this number on the Petlog/IKC microchip database. When an authorised person rings or searches Petlog/IKC online quoting this 15-digit number, your details will be accessible, therefore allowing for identification of your pet if they ever stray, get lost or need to be identified for any reason. Microchips aid in identification of animals and make successful reunions more likely if your pet ever gets lost or stolen. See the petDetect system
Does the microchip need any maintenance?
No, once a microchip is implanted it does not require any maintenance. We do however recommend that your pet’s microchip be scanned on a regular basis. This should happen on at least yearly - a good opportunity is to ask your vet to scan whenever your pet visits the surgery. Very occasionally microchips can migrate from the site of implantation and regular scanning can help identify if this has occurred.
My pet has just had a microchip implanted, what happens now?
As part of the petDetect implantation process, your implanter will have recorded your personal details and details of your animal. The implanter will arrange for these details to be registered with Petlog or the IKC - the database which store your personal details alongside your pet’s unique 15-digit microchip number. Once this has occurred, a registration confirmation certificate will be sent by email or post for Petlog, or by post only for the IKC. Please check this carefully for any errors, and keep it for your records, as it will contain the relevant information required if you need to change your details in the future. If you do not receive confirmation within 14 days, please contact Petlog on 01296 336 579 or the IKC on +353 1 453 3300. For pets implanted in the UK the cost of basic lifelong registration with Petlog is included in the cost of the microchip.
Do you use the Petlog database?
Yes! We only recommend the Petlog database for pets registered in the UK and as proof, our own dogs are registered on it. Petlog is the largest UK-based database, operates 365 days per year and is managed by the UK Kennel Club, pets are registered for life and their 24/7 telephone number is 01296 336 579. They are a 'not for profit' organisation. They also defer some of the fees they receive to maintain the database for years to come. Why even consider the others?
What database would you recommend for the Republic of Ireland?
Under the compulsory microchipping legislation for dogs in the ROI, we would recommend pet owners seek to have their dogs registered with the Irish Kennel Club dog identification database. They are a DAFM compliant database, a full member of EuroPetNet, and accept registrations for both pedigree and non-pedigree dogs.
My contact details have changed, what should I do?
Once the implanter has made the initial registration it is your responsibility to update your contact details. You can only do this through Petlog directly, either online, or by calling them on 01296 336 579. This is extremely important; failure to do so may render the identification abilities of your microchip useless, and make successful reunions less likely. Keepers of dogs also have a legal obligation to update their details with the database under the compulsory microchipping legislation introduced across the UK. Petlog currently charge a fee to update contact details, however they do offer a premium membership that, for a one-off fee, allows multiple updates for free among many other benefits. For more information on this please visit Petlog’s website.
I have rehomed/bought a pet, how do I update the contact details?
petDetect are not a microchip database so cannot change the details attached to a microchip, this is completed by Petlog.
Due to the Data Protection Act and for security reasons, Petlog do not allow a change of keepership to be completed online unless keepers are provided with the correct paperwork from the previous keeper. The section provided on your pet’s original registration certificate should provide the required information. If this paperwork is not available, then the transfer of keepership should be completed by filling in a downloadable form which should be posted to Petlog along with any evidence of ownership/keepership. For information and to download this form please go to Petlog’s website.
Are your microchips guaranteed?
Yes, of course. All of our equipment is guaranteed against manufacturing faults. Most of what we sell is made in the UK or in Europe.
If my pet goes missing or strays, can I track them using the microchip?
No, a microchip only emits a signal when a scanner is passed over the animal at close range. Microchips are not a form of GPS tracker.
Is a microchip proof of ownership?
No, although a registered microchip with up to date contact details is powerful supporting evidence.
What is Petlog Premium?
Petlog Premium is a premium registration service that pet owners can upgrade to for a one-off fee. It has many benefits including unlimited free changes to contact details, the ability to add extra information such as holiday contact details, access to an exclusive app and the ability for lost pet alerts to be sent to local vets and wardens if your pet strays. For more information please visit Petlog’s website or contact them directly. We strongly recommend all owners upgrade to this service.
My pet has been lost/stolen, what should I do?
Firstly, contact Petlog as soon as possible on 01296 336 579 to report this. Petlog have a very useful checklist for owners to follow on their website.
If you suspect that your pet has been stolen, inform the police as soon as possible.
Can the petDetect Trovan microchips be used for the Pet Passport Scheme?
Yes, they are perfect for the Pet Passport. Any scanner capable of reading FDX-B microchips can read them.
Can petDetect Trovan microchips be used in dogs for the purposes of compulsory microchipping legislation?
Yes, they are compliant with the compulsory microchipping legislation for dogs.