The Microchip Advisory Group (MAG) is a group of organisations established to form a focus for the use of Radio Frequency Identification Devices (RFID - microchips) in companion animals, including equines.  The Secretariat is provided by the British Small Animal Veterinary Association.

Membership of the MAG is intended to cover all those who are actively involved in the sale or use of microchips.  Current membership is: Manufacturers; Distributors; Databases; Major purchasers; Major implanters. BSAVA reserves the right to invite observers and induct new members to the group.

MAG objectives are:
To agree procedures for sale and implantation of microchips;
To agree standards of training for persons intending to implant microchips;
To encourage liaison between members;
To monitor and document adverse reactions to microchips;
To provide responses to consultations by ISO SC19 WG3.

MAG is to meet at least twice a year or more frequently if necessary.  The Chairman of meetings, who is to be independent, is to be appointed by BSAVA.

The current chairman is Chris Laurence.

Copies of the form for reporting adverse reactions can be obtained from the BSAVA office or you can:

Download the Adverse Reaction Form

To see the zonal diagram, please click here

MAG has drawn up a code of practice for microchip distributors, and monitors developments such as standardised performance tests and the development of microchips with advanced functions.

Download the Code of Practice here

Download a list of companies that are signed up to the code here

The site for implantation of microchips varies in different groups of animals. The MAG recommends the list drawn up after wide consultation by the WSAVA.
Central Microchip Databases Reunification 24 Hour Number 0870 6066751

Download the MAG implant manual here

For the WSAVA information on implantation sites in various animals, please click here

Download the MAG database Code of Practice here