How does a pet microchip work?

Brown and white dog carrying a stick in its mouth while running in water with a black dog beside it.

Your pet's microchip contains a unique 15-digit number which is linked to your details and stored on a compliant database, such as Pet Database.

Professionals such as vets, wardens and pet rescuers can view your pet's chip and look up your details to get in touch if your pet is lost, or if they need proof of ownership.

It's important to keep your details up to date so that your pet can be safely returned to you if they do go missing, and to avoid a hefty fine.

Why is my microchip so important?

Legal

Keeping your details up to date is a legal requirement.

All dogs and cats must be microchipped with their details registered and up to date on a compliant database. Pet owners who don’t do this risk a fine of up to £500.

Identify

A unique 15-digit number, scannable by professionals

They can then search for that unique microchip number against details held on any of the compliant databases, such as Pet Database.

Fines

Out-of-date details cause problems and you risk getting fined.

Not only could you face a hefty fine, if your pet does go missing, it would be difficult for a professional to safely return them home if they can’t get in touch with you.

Why choose us?

Our comprehensive service combines pet safety, peace of mind and the best chance of success if the worst happens.

Lost pet service

Safe and secure

Saftey pings

Quick and easy

Close-up of a gray tabby cat with eyes closed being gently held by hands on its cheeks.

All about Safety Pings

Pet Database's Smart Pet Tags are the ultimate protection for your pet.

Using QR codes, you never have to replace your tag - just update your details on your account whenever they change, plus get automatic Safety Pings when someone scans your Smart Pet Tag.

Yellow pet tag with the text 'Pet Database' hanging on a dog's curly tri-color fur.

I'm already registered with another database.

It’s quick and easy to register with us. And we’ll do all the admin to get you moved over.

Simply fill in a few details about your pet and we’ll get in touch with your existing database to let them know you’d like to move. They may get in touch with you directly to close your account, but you won’t need to do anything else.

We’ll keep your data safe and secure on our compliant database, which you can update as often as you need to.

The UK's largest lost and found pet locator

We work closely with DogLost, the UK's largest pet rescue community, and the nation's biggest lost and found pet locator.

Yellow circular pet tag with the words 'Pet Database' attached to a metal key ring.