When microchipping doesn’t help

All the experts tell you to get your dog microchipped.    It’s the sure fire way to get him back if he gets lost.    When he’s picked up, he’ll be scanned and someone will be in touch.   That’s what should happen but unfortunately it doesn’t always work like that.You’ll report his loss to the microchip company but even if they have details of where he is, they will not always divulge this information to you.   If he’s in a local authority kennels, you will surely get to know and can go and claim him.   But what if he’s been handed over and kept by a private individual who likes the look of him and doesn’t want to give him up.     The microchip provider won’t be able to tell you where he is and who has him without the new carer’s permission.  If he or she doesn’t give permission you will never get to know where he is.  The microchip company won’t be able to pass the information on because of the Data Protection Act 1998.

At least you’ll know that your dog is alive and presumably safe.   He’s your dog but you can’t have him back.    It’s a heartache situation and at this moment in time there is nothing you can do about it.    In a recent case the owner of a missing Jack Russell (who was desperate for the return of his much loved pet) even took the microchip company to court to compel them to tell him who had his dog.    He lost his case.   The police can do nothing to help – even though they too know where the dog is.  They say it’s a civil and not a criminal matter.   They have recommended that the Jack Russell’s owner goes to see a solicitor and starts proceedings.     How many people have the financial resources to pursue such a case?   And who would he start proceedings against if no one will tell him who has his dog?

It’s a crazy situation that should be made clear when microchipping is being done.   It might help identify your pets but it doesn’t guarantee that you’ll get them back.