Pet MicroChip & UK PETtrac Database Frequently Asked Questions
There are many questions you might have about a MicroChip for your pet, and hopefully this section and the rest of the website will answer a lot of them. If you still have further
questions, you may contact UK PETtrac here.
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 What is a pet MicroChip and how does it work?
The AVID MicroChip is a tiny computer chip which has an identification number programmed into it. The chip is encased in a strong bio-compatible glass, and is small enough to fit into a hypodermic needle. Once the chip has been implanted, the unique number can identify your pet throughout their life. This identification cannot be lost, altered or intentionally removed.
A special scanner is used to send a radio signal through the skin of the animal to read the chip. The animal feels nothing as the scanner is passed over them and the chip is read. The MicroChip number is then relayed to the scanner where it is displayed.
Why should I get my pet MicroChipped?
MicroChips provide a permanent, non-changeable or removable means of identification that will not be lost over time, as can occur with tags and tattoos. Owner information is immediately accessible, ensuring the rapid return of a lost pet, avoiding delays, which can be found with other methods of identification.
In the UK it is however, a requirement that your dog wears a tag bearing your address details. AVID supply high quality engraved brass collar tags (click here to order a pet tag) which are automatically inscribed with the freephone contact telephone number for our PETtrac database.
How does a vet, rescue centre or animal warden reunite me with my pet?
Once your pet has been scanned and a MicroChip number found, an authorised user simply contacts the UK PETtrac MicroChip Database to retrieve your details.
An authorised user can access data 24 hrs a day, 365 days a year via our freephone number (0800 652 9 977) to obtain your information - all calls are answered by trained reunification personnel, not a call centre.
In August 2003, AVID launched the ground-breaking SMS reunification service, TEXTtrac. This allows authorised personnel to register their mobile phone and then text the MicroChip number to PETtrac; an automated service then sends the owner's details back to the phone in less than 20 seconds!
Is there a charge for updating the registration details?
Your pet is automatically registered on the PETtrac Database FREE of charge when your pet is MicroChipped, for the lifetime of your pet.
If you wish to register a change of address or ownership a charge will be applied. It is very important that PETtrac has your up-to-date contact information so that we may reunite you and your pet as quickly as possible!
For a one-off fee, you may join PETtrac Plus, one of the benefits of this scheme is that you do not pay a charge to amend your contact information.
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