Key Takeaways
A dog microchip serves as a reliable form of ID for pets, helping prove ownership and comply with local requirements.
It lasts for about 25 years, operating throughout a pet’s lifetime.
Dogs can be safely microchipped as early as 8 weeks of age.
A dog microchip is a permanent form of identification that signifies ownership. It’s a small electronic chip placed under the dog’s skin by licensed veterinarians. The microchip is usually about the size of a grain of rice.
It doesn’t store information. When scanned, the chip displays a unique identification number that can be linked to the pet registry or database to retrieve the important details. This will show the owner’s name, home address, phone numbers, the dog’s name, breed, gender, and date of birth.
The unique identification number is 15 digits long and complies with global ISO standards (ISO 11784/11785).
How Much Does Dog Microchipping Cost?
Our veterinarians offer microchipping for 267.50 AED, which includes preparation, chip implantation, and registration. This is a one-time cost with no further maintenance or payment required.
When to Microchip Your Dog
Dr. Soheyl recommends microchipping your dog by 8 weeks of age. This is the safest, earliest age for a microchip to be injected.
Why Should You Microchip Your Dog?
Dog microchipping provides your dog with a permanent form of identification, unlike collars and ID tags, which may break or fall off. When vet clinics or authorities scan your dog’s chip, it links your information so they can contact you. It guarantees a safe reunion if your best friend gets lost.
In Dubai, microchipping is required for pet ownership, along with vaccinations and routine care. It’s also necessary to complete your dog’s travel documents and meet the requirements. They also won’t need any batteries or routine maintenance. These devices work best along with tags and collars.
How Long Do Dog Microchips Last?
They are designed to last about 25 years, easily operating throughout your pet’s entire lifetime. Microchips have no moving parts, as they simply need to be scanned to obtain the unique identification number.
What’s the Microchipping Process?
Our veterinarians keep the procedure simple. We’ll start by scanning your dog to make sure they don’t already have a chip. Next, our team will use a specialized syringe with a hypodermic needle to implant the chip into the loose skin at the back of your dog's neck, between the shoulder blades.
Since this is a quick procedure, it’s often done alongside your pet’s vaccinations or spaying/neutering surgery.
We’ll also help you register your pet with the Dubai Municipality. Here are the requirements dogs need:
Dogs must be at least 4 months old
ISO-compliant microchip
Updated and recorded rabies and DHPPi/L vaccines
Health check by a licensed veterinarian
Here are the documents required for pet owners:
Copy of Emirates ID and a valid UAE residence visa/passport
A copy of the tenancy contract or title deed
A No Objection Certificate from the landlord
Once registered, your dog is now legally recognized, and you’ll receive an official Dubai Municipality ID tag that must be worn on the collar.
Does Microchipping Hurt Dogs?
It may cause brief discomfort, but it is quick and well-tolerated. Most dogs will react for only a moment and may return to normal immediately after the procedure. This means anesthesia is not required for the process.
Some dogs may experience some mild soreness or swelling at the injection site. However, these are temporary and will resolve on their own. If the area becomes severely swollen, painful, or red, contact our vets right away.
Does a Dog Microchip Act as a GPS?
Microchips aren’t the same as GPS trackers. They don’t show the dog’s location, movement, or live activity. They only work when vet clinics or shelters scan the chip using a compatible microchip scanner.
“When dogs are microchipped, they gain a lifelong ID that keeps them close to us.”
- Dr. Nenad Misura
Dog microchipping is a simple but important step in responsible pet ownership. It gives your dog a permanent ID that helps vets and shelters contact you if ever your dog gets lost. Microchips are also best when paired with collars and ID tags.
Frequently Asked Questions
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