Many people think that microchipping is only for dogs and cats - but it can be done for a variety of animals, including rabbits.
A microchip is recommended by the RSPCA as an effective way of permanently linking pets to their owners, increasing the chances of them being reunited if the animal is lost, stolen or strays.
Thousands of pets are lost every year and many are never reunited with their owners. The RSPCA believes that the best way to ensure a lost pet is found is to have it microchipped - implanted with a special microchip tag.
How does microchipping work?
Once an animal has been microchipped it has its own unique code number. The owner's details and the code are put on to the national Petlog database. If a lost or stolen animal is found, the code will be revealed by passing a scanner over the microchip. Then it's just a matter of matching the code with the Petlog database.
How can microchipping help find my animal?
The Petlog scheme provides a fast, fool-proof way of identifying your animal, wherever it is found. The RSPCA, other animal welfare organisations and vets all have scanners which can read the microchip's details.
Is microchipping easy to do?
Yes, it's as simple as an injection. A tiny microchip - the size of a grain of rice - is painlessly inserted under the animal's skin. Once in, the microchip cannot move or be seen, but can be read by the scanner.
How much does it cost?
Prices vary but a one-off payment of about £20 will get your pet on to the Petlog database for life. Owner details can be quickly amended if an address changes.
Where can I have my pet microchipped?
Contact your local RSPCA branch or veterinary surgeon for advice.
Why should I worry about losing my pet?
Even the most reliable and well-cared for animal can get lost or stolen. Stray rabbits are found more commonly than anyone realises.
Is the microchip system well established?
More than 450,000 animals have been microchipped in the past five years in the UK alone. For more information about joining Petlog, telephone 0870 606 6751.
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