It's compulsory to have any dog over the age of eight weeks microchipped in the UK. Failure to comply can land you with a £500 fine and more trouble with the law.
Following recent regulation, it will also become mandatory in June 2024 to have any cat under the age of 20 weeks microchipped in the UK. All current owners have until 10 June 2024 to get their cat microchipped or face a £500 fine.
Microchipping helps owners get reunited with lost pets. A scannable chip is inserted under its skin, then registered. It means the pet can be returned to its owner if it gets lost and is then found.
This usually costs £10-£20 per pet, but you may be able to get your mutt microchipped for free at Dogs Trust rehoming centres, via a Blue Cross centre or even by some councils.
Similarly for cats, occasionally local charities offer a free service or host events where the service is provided for free.