Check Your Chip Dog Microchip Awareness Campaign

Keep Your Dog Safe. Check Your Microchip Today.

Every year, dogs go missing across the Dover District. While many are found safe, some can't be reunited quickly because their microchip details are missing, incorrect or out of date.

A microchip is only effective if the information linked to it is accurate.

If you've moved house, changed your phone number, or taken ownership of a dog, now is the perfect time to check that your dog's microchip details are up to date.

Why is Dog Microchipping Important

Microchips help identify dogs and reunite them with their owners when they become lost.

Unfortunately, records held by Dover District Council show that over half of stray dogs seized during 2025/26 either:

• Had incorrect microchip information recorded, or
• Were not microchipped at all.

When details are out of date, dog wardens and veterinary professionals may be unable to contact an owner quickly, meaning dogs may have to be transported to kennels until ownership can be established.

A simple check today could save your dog from unnecessary stress and save you from costly kennel fees.

Is Microchipping a Legal Requirement?

Yes.

Under the Microchipping of Cats and Dogs (England) Regulations 2023, all dogs must be:

✔ Microchipped by the time they are 8 weeks old

✔ Registered on an approved microchip database

✔ Kept up to date with the owner's current contact details

Failure to comply can result in enforcement action and a fine.

 Don't Forget Collar and Tag

Microchipping does not replace the legal requirement for your dog to wear a collar and ID tag when in a public place.

Under the Control of Dogs Order 1992, dogs must wear a collar displaying the owner's name and address (including postcode) whilst in public.

Adding a telephone number is strongly recommended as it can help someone contact you directly if your dog is found.

When Should You Update Your Dog's Microchip Details?

You should update your details whenever:

• You move home
• You change your telephone number
• You rehome or sell your dog
• Your emergency contact changes
• You discover that your details are incorrect

Many owners assume updates happen automatically when they inform their vet. In most cases, the owner is responsible for updating information directly with the microchip database provider.

How Do I Check My Dog's Microchip?

Step 1: Find Out Which Database Your Dog Is Registered With

If you have your dog's paperwork, it should include the microchip number and database details.

If you're unsure, your vet can scan your dog's microchip and provide the chip number.

Step 2: Contact the Database Provider

Log in to your provider's website or contact them directly to check:

• Your name
• Address
• Telephone number
• Email address
• Emergency contact details

Step 3: Update Any Incorrect Information

Make any necessary changes straight away.

Keeping your details current ensures you can be contacted quickly if your dog is found.

 

What Happens If My Dog Goes Missing?

If your dog becomes lost:

1. Check the area where it was last seen.
2. Contact local veterinary practices.
3. Notify your microchip database provider.
4. Report the dog missing through local social media groups and animal welfare organisations.
5. Contact Dover District Council's Dog Warden Service.

Report a Missing or Stray Dog

Website: www.dover.gov.uk/dogwarden 

Telephone: 01304 872289

Email: envcrime@dover.gov.uk

 

The Cost of Not Keeping Details Updated

If your dog is collected as a stray, fees may apply before it can be returned, including:

• Processing fees
• Kennelling charges
• Out-of-hours collection fees
• Veterinary costs where applicable

Accurate microchip information can often help avoid these costs by allowing officers to contact you directly.

Responsible Dog Ownership

Keeping your microchip details updated is just one part of responsible dog ownership.

Remember to:

✅ Ensure your dog is microchipped

✅ Keep records updated

✅ Use a collar and ID tag

✅ Keep your dog under control at all times

✅ Prevent your dog from straying

✅ Clean up after your dog

✅ Provide for your dog's welfare needs

Take the 2-Minute Check Today

Your dog depends on you.

A quick check of your microchip details today could make all the difference if your dog ever goes missing.

Check Your Chip. Keep Your Dog Safe.

#CheckYourChip