The initial discussion on the Pat Kenny Show vet spot today was all about microchips.
Already, since September 2015, all puppies must be identified by implantation of a microchip and registration on an approved database. Puppies are not now allowed to leave their place of birth without being microchipped. This means that a new puppy owner should no longer be able to purchase a puppy that is not already implanted with a microchip and registered on an approved database. You must also receive a change of ownership form from the person selling or giving you the pup.
From the 31st March 2016, the new regulations will apply to all dogs, regardless of age. So if your pet is not microchipped, you need to get this done during the next month. And if your pet has been microchipped but is not registered on one of the approved databases, then you need to take the necessary steps to organise registration. If you are not sure what is in your dog and whether or not it’s registered, your own vet can tell you free of charge.
Microchipping has now become an official procedure that involves specific paperwork to ensure that all dogs are properly linked to owners. When registering a microchip, vets and nurses must certify that they have inspected two important documents from the dog owner:
- Some type of photographic identification (e.g. driver’s licence or passport)
- A utility bill issued within the previous three months giving the owners address.
Without these documents, microchipping cannot take place, so it’s important to be prepared before going to the vet. Once a dog is microchipped and registered, the database will issue a certificate to the owner.
March 2016 is National Chipping Month
This month – March – is “National Chipping Month”, and it’s the ideal time to bring your pet’s microchip status up to date. Microchipping is being offered at discounted rates in an effort to be as inclusive to as many people as possible.
Dogs Trust will be running two free microchipping clinics at their Rehoming Centre in Finglas on March 5th and March 19th, from 10am – 1pm. These clinics will be operated on a “first come, first serve” basis
Additionally, hundreds of private clinics are working with Dogs Trust across the country to offer a limited number of free microchips during this coming month.
Please note that I am unable to answer veterinary questions in comments. If you have questions or concerns about your pet's health it is always better to contact your vet.