Torridge District Council is inviting cat and dog owners to attend two free microchip‑checking events on Wednesday 18th March. At these sessions, staff will scan each pet’s microchip and confirm which database the number is registered with. Owners will receive a card showing the chip number and the name of the database so they have a record and can check or update their own details if they wish.
Neighbourhood Officers from the Council will be available at the following locations:
- Stanhope Park, Holsworthy – 9:00am to 11:00am
- Northam Burrows Visitor Centre – 1:00pm to 3:00pm
Microchipping is one of the most effective ways to reunite lost pets with their owners. In the UK, all dogs must be microchipped and have their current owner details registered on an approved database, with failure to register a dog or keep details updated resulting in fines of up to £500.
Legal protection for cats has also been strengthened. Since 10th June 2024, it has been compulsory for all pet cats in England to be microchipped by 20 weeks of age, a measure designed to increase the likelihood of lost or stolen cats being returned home and to reduce pressure on animal welfare organisations.
Microchips, each about the size of a grain of rice, contain a unique 15‑digit code that can be easily scanned to identify the registered keeper. The implanting procedure is quick, simple, and generally no more uncomfortable for a pet than a routine vaccination.
Councillor Philip Hackett, Lead Member for Public Health & Community Safety, said: “Microchipping is a straightforward yet vital part of responsible pet ownership. For many of us, our pets are cherished members of the family, and we want to do everything we can to keep them safe. These check‑in events provide an excellent opportunity to make sure your pet’s microchip details are accurate and up to date. Sadly, animals do sometimes go missing or may even be targeted by thieves, so having a functioning, reliable microchip greatly increases the chances of a safe and swift reunion.”
