In a number of local authorities, chipping and registration of dogs is mandatory. In Tallinn, the same rules apply to cats.
What is a microchip?
A microchip is a small biocapsule that contains electronic information and carries a unique digital 16-digit number combination.
How is it installed?
A veterinarian places a microchip under the animal’s skin, using a syringe-like instrument. Consequently, the procedure is no more painful than a routine vaccination shot. The microchip is easily found under the skin by a microchip reader.
How can it be located in an animal?
The presence of a microchip can be verified, using a special microchip reader. If a chip has been placed, the relevant number is displayed on the microchip reader’s screen. Most times, the chip is placed in the left side of the neck which makes it easier to locate it later.
How does it protect the animal?
Microchipping provides a guarantee that the animal’s owner is identified very fast. The microchip also comes in handy in proving ownership if an animal is stolen.
Does a microchip in a dog pose a risk to the health of the dog or the owner?
Microchips do not carry a charge, do not emit radiation, and do not cause tissue damage. A microchip is activated only by the signal emitted by the chip reader.
What should I do with the data I receive?
Based on the owner’s application, microchipped animals are registered in the nation-wide pet register www.lemmikloomaregister.ee, connected to the pan-European register Europetnet. Animal owners themselves may register their animal in the local authorities’ pet register or request the assistance of an official authorized by the local government to carry out such registrations.
NB! A chip without a corresponding database entails a useless number combination, while the database allows for the animal’s owner and their contact details to be easily found. Therefore, it is essential that you indeed register your pet. Regrettably, the situation related to pet registers is still quite confusing in Estonia today.