From 6 April 2016, it will be a legal requirement for all dogs over eight weeks of age in England, Wales and Scotland to be microchipped – unless exempt (the microchipping of dogs in Northern Ireland has been mandatory since 2012).
Who can implant a microchip into a dog?
In order to implant a microchip into a dog, the person must meet the criteria of at least one of the following:
- a veterinary surgeon or a veterinary nurse acting under the direction of a veterinary surgeon
- a student of veterinary surgery or a student veterinary nurse and in either case acting under the direction of a veterinary surgeon
- have been satisfactorily assessed on a training course approved by the Secretary of State (England), Scottish Ministers (Scotland), Welsh Ministers (Wales) for that purpose
- before the 24 February 2015, they received training on implantation which included practical experience of implanting a microchip.
The new regulations, therefore, may affect a number of people who may be implanting microchips into dogs and may be unable to continue to do so without further training. These could include those working in rescue centres, dog breeders, veterinary care assistants and veterinary nurses microchipping animals whilst not under the direction of a veterinary surgeon.
For those who need to attend a training programme, The College of Animal Welfare is now offering the VetSkill Level 3 Award in Implantation of Identification Microchips in Animals qualification. This approved qualification complies with the new legal requirements for England and Wales. The course can be studied by either online learning or by attendance at a study weekend, followed by a practical assessment day for all candidates. Successful completion of the qualification will allow delegates to join the VetSkill Register of Qualified Microchip Implanters.
To find our more, or to apply for the course, visit The College of Animal Welfare website.