The United States does not require pets to be micro-chipped by law, but it is strongly advised! There are 4 types of Micro-chips available, each with a unique frequency. Most shelters and clinics can pick up at least 3 of the 4 different frequencies. If you travel with your pet abroad, it may be helpful to know that Europe uses mainly 134.2 kilohertz chip while the US favors a 125 and 128 kilohertz chips, But as the chips become more popular all over the world…many shelters and clinics will have the capabilities to read all frequencies.
Below is a list of Countries that require pets (mostly dogs) to be Micro-chipped by law:
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New South Wales, Australia requires pets to be microchipped. The rest of the Australian has a National Livestock Identification System for livestock owners.
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Japan requires microchips or a compatible reader on imported dogs and cats.
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In Israel all dogs aged three months or older, must microchip their dogs, this includes imported dogs as well.
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In New Zealand, all dogs first registered after July, 1 2006 must be microchipped. (Farm dogs were exempted from the microchipping law.
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In April 2012 Northern Ireland became the first UK country to require microchipping of licenced dogs.
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As of 2016, dog owners in England will be required to microchip their cat or dog. The goal is to cut the rise in strays and those pet owners who do not comply will face fines up to £500!
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Albania, Andorra, Aruba, Antigua, Barbados, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Bulgaria, Belgium, British Virgin Islands, Canary Islands, Cayman Islands, Croatia, Curacao, Cypress, Czech Republic, Denmark, Egypt, England, Estonia, Figi, Finland, France, Tahiti, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Guam, Hawaii, Holland, Hong Kong, Hungary, Ireland, Isle of Man, Israel, Italy, Japan, Jersey Channel Islands, Kuwait, Latvia, Libya, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau, Macedonia, Malaysia, Malta, Monaco, New Caledonia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Ireland, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Scotland, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, St. Kitts and Nevis, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Trinidad Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands, United Arab Emirates, all of United Kingdom including Wales, all require microchipping pets.
There may be individual cities or counties that require microchipping your pet. It's important to check with your local government offices or animal control to see what the laws are. No matter where you live, microchips are safeguards. If your pet is lost, the information in the microchip can reunite the two of you.
