Thanks to our animal-loving sponsors
Rotherham, South Yorkshire
Rotherham, South Yorkshire
Every year on 15 August, National Check the Chip Day reminds pet owners that microchipping isn’t just a one-time task — it’s a commitment to keeping your cat or dog safe. A simple annual check of your pet’s microchip details could be the difference between a happy reunion and a permanent separation.
Microchips are tiny, permanent devices implanted under your pet’s skin. Each chip holds a unique ID number linked to your contact information in the national pet microchip database.
If a cat or dog goes missing, vets, animal wardens, or rescues like Rain Rescue can scan the chip to locate the owner quickly. Without up-to-date information, even a microchipped pet may be treated as a stray, ending up in a rescue centre instead of returning home.
Dogs: Microchipping has been legally required in the UK since April 2016.
Cats: Microchipping became a legal requirement for cats over 20 weeks old in June 2024.
Failing to register or update your pet’s microchip details can lead to fines of up to £500.
Microchipping a pet typically costs £10–£30 at a vet clinic. At Rain Rescue, every cat and dog adopted from us is microchipped before leaving the centre, with registration included in the adoption fee — along with essential health checks. This means new owners can rest assured their pet is safe and fully identified from day one.
Lost pet: Contact your microchip database, local vets, and animal rescue centres like Rain Rescue. Search local areas and online missing pet registers.
Found pet: Take them to a vet or rescue centre to check for a microchip — it’s the fastest way to reunite them with their owner.
Abandoned pet: Report it to your local animal warden or reach out to us for guidance.
At Rain Rescue, microchipping is just the beginning. We work every day to rescue cats and dogs, care for them, and help them find loving forever homes. Keeping microchip records up to date means more pets can return home safely without needing rescue intervention.
National Check the Chip Day is the perfect time to review your pet’s details, but don’t wait until something goes wrong. An annual check ensures your cat or dog is protected and gives rescuers like Rain Rescue the chance to focus on saving more animals in need.
When you buy a gift for a Rain Rescue animal, it will help us to provide the care the cats and dogs in our centre need.
Treat them to a cosy place to sleep, a treat and a toy, or nutritious food to keep them strong. It’s a great way to donate, thank you.
Founded in 2002, our charity has saved the lives of thousands of the cats and dogs most at risk in and around Yorkshire. Our rescue centre provides the space and support needed for these abandoned animals to recover, thrive and find a loving home.
