Microchipping at Petmania

Microchip implants are called radio frequency identification (RFID) tags. They are tiny, about the size of a large grain of rice. Each microchip is coded with a unique number that can be read by a scanner and works through radio wave frequency.

Once the chip is injected under the skin of your pet, the unique number can identify your pet throughout their life once registered on an approved database. The chip can’t be lost or easily removed and hence provides a secure method for identifying you as the owner of your pet.

In the event that you pet becomes lost or stolen, the unique ID number on your pet’s chip will make it the best way of identifying you as your pet’s owner. In Ireland it is a legal requirement for all dogs to be microchipped and registered on an approved database. If you are getting a dog, or re-homing one, it must be microchipped before moving to its new home.

Yes, cats can be microchipped. While is is not currently a legal requirement to microchip cats in Ireland, cats are more likely to roam than dogs and as such are at a greater risk of becoming lost or stolen. Having your cat microchipped will help ensure they can get home safely. 

Microchips are injected under the skin using a hypodermic needle. It is no more painful than a typical injection, although the needle is slightly larger than those used for an injection. Some pets may find this uncomfortable and it may cause them to yelp momentarily. No surgery or anesthesia is required and can even be added to a grooming appointment. On some occasions during implantation, a pet may bleed slightly. This is not uncommon and should not be cause for alarm.

Microchips only contain a 15-digit unique identification number which can be searched on a database and linked with the registered owner. It is not a GPS tracking device and you cannot track your animal if they get lost. If your pet is found and brought to someone with a scanner, they can contact you and reunite you with your pet. No personal information is stored on the chip itself.

Here at Petmania we can scan your pet to find out if they have been chipped or not. From there, we can direct you to the correct database provider to verify or update your contact information.

If your contact details have changed you must update your information on the microchip database and obtain a new Certificate of Registration. This can be done by contacting the issuing body directly. A small fee will be payable to update your details. The four approved Irish databases are Animark, Fido, Irish Kennel Club and Micro Dog ID. 

If your pet has been microchipped at Petmania, they will be registered with Animark.

Certificates of Registration will be issued directly by Animark. This can take up to 7 working days after we submit the registration. Certificates will be issued to the email address you have provided. If you don’t receive your certificate within 7 working days, please contact your local Petmania store. 

Petmania Microchipping Days are hosted on the first Saturday of every month from 9am to 11am. Below is a table of upcoming dates

*These dates may be subject to change. Currently only available in Petmania Waterford.