Moving home isn’t just about updating your address with utilities or government services—it’s also essential for your pets. From microchip databases and vets to pet insurance, outdated contact information can lead to missed communication, failed claims, or delays in reuniting with a lost pet. This guide walks you through every update you need to make, why it matters, and how to complete it quickly and easily.
Why Up‑to‑Date Pet Records Are Important
In the UK, microchipping is mandatory for dogs—and from mid-2024, also for cats in England—and must be linked to a DEFRA-approved database. However, compliance doesn’t end there. Legal regulations require keepers to maintain accurate address and contact details. Readily accessible contact info dramatically increases the chances of reuniting with a lost dog or cat. ([gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/get-your-dog-cat-microchipped?utm_source=chatgpt))
Additionally, local authorities can levy financial penalties of up to £500 if microchip information is inaccurate. Pet owner scams that claim “microchips expire” are frequent—beware of these scams and only use official registries like Petlog or UK PETtrac. ([petlog.org.uk](https://www.petlog.org.uk/pet-keeper/updating-your-details))
Step‑by‑Step: Updating Microchip Records
- Find your pet’s 15-digit microchip number (in paperwork or scanned by a vet).
- Determine which database it’s registered with (e.g. Petlog, UK PETtrac, Microchip Central).
- Log into your account—or create one—using the microchip number.
- Update your address and preferred contact phone number; premium services may charge ~£12–£20 but provide unlimited updates. ([pettrac.co.uk](https://www.pettrac.co.uk/pet-owners/update-pet-microchip))
- Save changes and retain confirmation—check back after a few days to ensure it was processed. ([microchipcentral.com](https://www.microchipcentral.com/update-details))
Notify Your Vet and Insurance Provider
Updating microchip records does not automatically update your vet or insurance company. Each provider requires separate contact updates:
- Vet clinic: Use their online portal or email to notify your address change.
- Insurance: Log into the insurer’s website or call customer service to update address to ensure claims and renewal notices are sent correctly.
Failure to update can result in missed appointment reminders being mailed to your old address or insurance claims being denied due to mismatched records.
Legal Risks and Penalties
Under UK law, failing to maintain accurate microchip data is considered an offence. Local authorities can issue fines up to ÂŁ500 and in rare cases may even seize the pet if contact data cannot be verified. ([petlog.org.uk](https://www.petlog.org.uk/pet-keeper/updating-your-details))
Planning Ahead: Useful Tips
- Engrave your updated address or name on your pet's collar as a backup.
- Set periodic reminders to review microchip and insurance records every 6–12 months.
- If your pet is rehomed or adopted, formally transfer keeper details through the official registry. ([content.tailster.com](https://content.tailster.com/update-pets-details-address-on-identibase))
- Avoid promotional or fraudulent emails requesting renewing microchip services—these are often scams. Verified changes are done only via official DEFRA-approved databases.
Case Study: Updating with Petlog
Petlog, a DEFRA-approved registry in the UK, allows free address updates online. You can upload documents and even request engraved tags at no extra cost. Its interface allows easy confirmation of keeper identity and email updates. ([petlog.org.uk](https://www.petlog.org.uk/pet-keeper/updating-your-details))
In Summary
Accurate contact information for your pet is about responsibility and legal compliance—and in a crisis, it can save a life. From microchip databases to vet records and insurance plans, take a few minutes to update all your pet-related services after a move. UpdateOne provides direct links to all vetted official providers—no data collection, just a link to what needs updating. Keep your pet safe and your records accurate.
Sources: GOV.UK microchipping regulations, Petlog, Pettrac, Microchip Central, Tailster content, scam reports from UK news sites.