Scanning procedure
Before scanning an animal, check that the scanner is working and that you know the correct orientation for the make of scanner being used to maximise the likelihood of detection of the microchip. It may be appropriate to remove the dog’s collar before scanning, both to avoid interference and because there have been reports of microchips being inserted into the collar rather than the dog for smuggling purposes.
The microchip scanner should be passed slowly over the surface of the animal, moving the scanner in an ‘S’ shaped pattern over the dorsum of the animal. Scanning should begin and concentrate over the standard implantation site in the UK, which is midway between the shoulder blades (this should take 10–20 seconds). If no chip is detected, rotate the scanner by 90 degrees and rescan the animal.
If the microchip is not detected here, you should scan down the left side of the neck (the standard implantation side in Europe) then down the back, on the sides, over the shoulders and down to the elbows.
If a microchip is still not detected where there is evidence that a microchip has been implanted, the following should be considered:
- Scan other areas of the body to see if the microchip has migrated. Start at the pet’s head and slowly scan side-to-side all the way to the pet’s tail, making several passes over each area. Then, slowly scan down the sides of the pet‘s leg, across its neck, along and under its chest and behind its front legs;
- Change the orientation of the scanner and rescan the animal;
- Rescan the animal with a different scanner.
Legal obligations
If it is found that a dog or cat has not been microchipped after the introduction of compulsory microchipping the veterinary surgeon does not have any responsibility to report the owner but whenever possible should advise the owner of their legal responsibility to have the pet microchipped. BSAVA recommends that this advice is recorded in the animal’s clinical record.
There is currently no legal requirement for a veterinary surgeon to scan a dog or cat for a microchip except before rabies vaccination and the issuing of travel documentation such as an Animal Health Certificate or completing other official documentation that requires identification of the animal. However, there are many circumstances in which it is advisable to do so:
- Prior to implanting a microchip, in order to ensure that no microchip is present;
- When a lost or stray animal is presented, in order to facilitate reunification with the owner;
- To ensure that a previously implanted microchip is still working and has not migrated significantly from its site of implantation. This is particularly important before an animal travels abroad;
- On first presentation at the practice, in order to ensure that the animal is correctly identified;
- Prior to carrying out official health screening/tests – to ensure that the animal is correctly identified. Many tests require the microchip number to be included on the form, and in the case of radiographs for BVA/KC schemes the microchip number must be radiographed on to the film at the time of exposure.
- Prior to euthanasia, where appropriate (see below).
Additional considerations at euthanasia
In addition, the supporting guidance for the RCVS code of professional conduct for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses, updated December 2024, states:
29.30 There may be circumstances where a request is made by a client for the destruction of a dog or cat, where in the clinical/professional judgement of the veterinary surgeon destruction of the dog or cat is not necessary, for instance where there are no health or welfare reasons for the dog or cat to be euthanised.
29.31 In these circumstances, before carrying out the request for euthanasia the veterinary surgeon should scan the dog or cat for a microchip and check the relevant database if a microchip is found.
29.32 In relation to both dogs and cats, clients may have a contract with the shelter from which they acquired the animal such that it can be returned to that shelter, and that it may be appropriate to discuss this with them prior to euthanasia. Alternatively, there may be another individual willing to take responsibility for the animal (who may be named on the microchip database), and this may also be discussed with the client. If no microchip is found, this should be recorded on the clinical record.
29.33 In relation to cats, clients may request that a healthy cat be euthanised under the mistaken impression that the cat is a stray. It is therefore important to check whether there is another owner who has responsibility, or is willing to take responsibility, for the cat, who may be named on the microchip database.
Ownership disputes
On occasion, veterinary professionals may become aware that the animal presented is registered to another keeper. While it is not essential or even always possible to obtain consent from an owner before scanning, consideration should be given to how these issues will be dealt with should they arise.
Section 29 of the RCVS guidance supporting the Codes of Professional Conduct for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses provides detailed information on how to deal with issues relating to microchipping, including potential ownership disputes. RCVS has also produced a flow chart outlining how to deal with issues relating to microchipping and client confidentiality in difficult situations, such as where the animal may have been stolen or in potential ownership disputes. This advice covers:
- Seeking prior agreement to disclose
- Seeking consent to disclose
- What to do when consent is not given.
The BSAVA recommends that veterinary practices should be aware of their obligations under GDPR with respect to the release of any personal information and follow RCVS Guidance. The RCVS states that if it is suspected that the animal is stolen, veterinary surgeons or the owner may involve the police. In the case of a potential dispute we recommend that you:
- Read the RCVS Guidance in detail
- Consult your professional indemnity provider
- Keep detailed notes.