Residents across the Borough of Havant must ensure their cats are microchipped and their contact details are kept up to date.
It is now a legal requirement for both dogs and cats to be microchipped. You should make sure to:
- Microchip your dog or cat and register their details on a compliant database.
- Keep your contact details up to date on the database.
Since 2016, it has been a requirement for dogs over eight weeks old to be microchipped. In June 2024, it also became a requirement for cats over 20 weeks old to be microchipped.
Microchipping not only helps people find their lost pets, but also helps the council return pets to their owners more quickly. It is a simple procedure that will last for your pet's lifetime.
Councillor Richard Brown, Cabinet Lead for Place, said: "Our pets easily become a part of the family, and losing them can be stressful and upsetting.
"It is important to microchip your pet and keep your contact details up to date, as this will allow you to be contacted if they go missing."
If your pet is found to not be microchipped, you may be issued a fine of up to £500.
To find out more about microchipping, please visit the PDSA’s website.