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ILA Breeder Member |
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Microchip We use AVID microchips. There are many brands but we like AVID as they hold their own data with the largest and oldest 24/7 microchip recovery database in the world. Also this microchip is approved for the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) by DEFRA which is useful if you are traveling outside Europe, and want to obtain a pet passport. Please be warned this process takes 6-7 months to complete before pup can re-enter the UK so plan ahead. What is a microchip? A microchip is a sophisticated computer chip which is pre-programmed with a totally unique identification number. The device is encapsulated within a biocompatible glass material, which means that there is virtually no chance of the body developing an allergy or trying to reject the microchip, after being properly implanted.
When should pup be microchipped? Anytime after 6 weeks. Earlier the better- in case pup is lost/stolen. Dog theft is actually widespread so microchipping/tattooing is a deterrent as pup is identifiable as soon as it enter any vets/. There have been incidences when stolen young pups have been re-united with their families because they were permanently identified with chip/tattoo. Why microchip as well as tattoo? Its the "belts and braces" principle - why do one, if two is better at keeping your trousers up? Does it hurt? Yes I think it does, some pups don't even flinch but others cry. Its not nice to hear a pup in pain even for a second and I (Lisa) cant actually do the chipping myself, despite having undergone the training! A least when they have it done here with us then mum is nearby and gives them a lick for being brave. Its only a second and its for a lifetime of protection. Lets hope they never need it. Are there any possible complications The risks are very low. The possible complications are infection, allergic reaction or swelling. We had one pup who had slight swelling after the chip, its rare but it can happen with any foreign object entering a living being. In this case we simply had the vet run a series of tests to check there was no abscess or infection, she took precautionary antibiotics and stayed home with us for a month, just to be safe. We feel that if there is going to be a reaction we'd rather it happened whilst pup is still with us rather than just after adoption otherwise there are instant vets bills etc to deal with. We think its best to have the microchip done BEFORE adoption. Is a pet ID tag still necessary? Yes, by law your dog is required to wear identification with your name and contact details on it, even if your pet is microchipped. The wording goes...... Under the Control of Dogs Order (1992), it is a requirement that every dog whilst in a place of public resort, must wear a collar with the name and address of its owner inscribed on it or on a plate or badge attached to it. What if we change address?
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