What is a Microchip?

A microchip is a tiny device the size of a grain of rice that is injected under the skin of the pet. It contains the pet’s identification number.

What kind of information does a microchip hold?

A microchip contains a unique 15-digit identification number. It does not contain any other personal information and is uniquely linked to your pet.

How can a microchip number help to track my pet?

If your pet is lost and found, a vet or animal shelter can scan the microchip using a reader to obtain its unique identification number.

A search of the Europetnet (EPN) database can identify the database and country where your pet is registered. If the search does not provide enough information, the finder can contact the microchip supplier for further assistance and, where possible, additional tracing to help reunite you with your pet.

What information do I need to provide to the database?

When your pet is microchipped, it is essential that you register the microchip with a database in the country where you live. Ideally, choose a database that is a member of Europetnet, helping ensure your pet can be identified if you travel abroad.

You will generally need to provide your:

     Name

     Home address

     Telephone number

     Email address

You will also need to provide information about your pet, including:

     Name

     Breed

     Sex

     Colour

Please note: To give your pet the best chance of being reunited with you, it is very important to keep your contact details up to date with the database.

How much does microchipping cost?

The cost of microchipping varies depending on where you live and the country you are in. Some databases offer registration free of charge, while others may charge a fee.

Is microchipping painful for my pet?

Microchipping is a quick and relatively painless procedure. The microchip is inserted using a dedicated applicator and causes little discomfort, similar to having a vaccination.

Are there different types of Microchips?

Yes. Under EU regulations, an imported animal must be identified by an ISO 11784/11785-compliant microchip.

If your pet’s microchip is not ISO compliant, you may need to carry your own microchip reader when travelling. There is no guarantee that customs or border officials will have access to a multi-reader.

We are moving to Germany. Does my pet have the right microchip?

EU rules for travelling with pets require animals to have appropriate identification, including an ISO 11784/11785-compliant microchip. Your vet will record the microchip number in your pet’s passport.

Please check before you travel. If your pet’s microchip is not ISO compliant, you will need to carry your own reader.

My pet is lost and has a microchip, What can I do?

If your pet goes missing:

     Contact the database where your pet’s microchip is registered and ask them to                       flag your pet as lost.

     Contact local vets, rescue organisations and your local animal warden.

     Use online networks and social media to share recent photographs and details of                   where and when your pet was last seen.

     If you believe your pet has been stolen, report it to the police. You can also report                   the incident to Europetnet.

I don’t remember which database my pet’s microchip is registered with. How can I find out?

Enter your pet’s microchip number into the Europetnet’s ID search engine. The search will tell you which database your pet’s microchip is registered with, including the database’s name and contact information.