As of October 2020, it is compulsory for all horse owners to microchip their horses, ponies and donkeys, regardless of their age.

The new law has been introduced to crack down on abuse and improve animal welfare.

Central Equine Database will hold passport, microchip and ownership details which can be accessed by the police and local authorities to track down and punish the owners of horses that have been dumped, and ensure the animals are cared for. It will also be easier for missing or stolen horses to be reunited with their owners.

If by October 2020 horse owners have not microchipped their horses, ponies and donkeys, they could face sanctions from their local authority including a compliance notice and a fine of up to £200. If your horse, pony or donkey is not yet microchipped, you are strongly advised to get this done soon. Why not combine it with a routine vet visit? If you are purchasing a horse, you should check the horse has a passport and is microchipped. Your vet will be able to check the horse is microchipped.

Microchipping ensures every horse, pony and donkey is each identified by using a microchip. Each microchip, which is only the size of a grain of rice, holds a unique number which can be read by a microchip scanner. The whole procedure takes just a few minutes to do, and lasts a lifetime.

For more information on please use the following link: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/compulsory-microchipping-to-improve-horse-welfare