Gozo SPCA would like to remind everyone that microchipping of dogs over 4 months old is a legal requirement in Malta, however, it  pointed out that however, the majority of dogs that are either reported as lost or picked up by Animal Welfare Gozo are neither microchipped or wearing a name tag with contact details.

The NGO has now been awarded funds, under a Grant from the Ministry for Gozo, to microchip dogs and cats in Gozo.

It said that without identification there is an inevitable delay in reuniting dogs and owners causing worry and upset to both the owners and their pets.

It explained that the microchip is about the size of a grain of rice and is inserted in the back of the animal’s neck. It is coated in a silicon capsule that causes no harm when inserted in the body of the animal. The microchip holds a unique number which can be read using a special reader.

Owners’ details, linked to this unique number, are recorded on a database and can be retrieved quickly if the animal is found. The procedure for inserting the microchip is quick and painless and the animal suffers no discomfort from the chip which remains in place for the rest of the animal’s life.

Gozo SPCA said that whilst it is not yet a legal requirement for cats to be microchipped this will be introduced in due course. The micro-chip in your cat can also be used in conjunction with certain gadgets such as cat flaps that open only for your cat. The procedure for inserting the microchip into cats is the same as for dogs.

As from the 1st of June 2021, Gozo SPCA said that pet owners can arrange an appointment with either one of the following Veterinary Clinics:

The Galea Veterinary Clinic Triq Wied is-Seqer, Victoria, Gozo 21 554 257, or;

The Animal Doctor Triq Karlu Galea, Victoria, Gozo 99 823 658

At each clinic pet owners will be given a simple form to complete before the procedure. Gozo SPCA explained that for dogs, once the microchip details have been entered onto the database they will receive a document through the post which should be kept safe throughout the animal’s life. At present no documents are issued for cats so the number will need to be kept safe.

Gozo SPCA went on to say that the project will run from June to November 2021 and funds are limited so it is important to make an appointment early to ensure that your pet is chipped and registered.

This initiative is being supported by the Ministry for Gozo NGO Assistance Scheme, a funding programme for Voluntary Organisations on the Island of Gozo

This publication reflects the views only of the author, and the Ministry for Gozo cannot be held responsible for the content or any use which may be made of the information contained therein.

Photo: Gozo SPCA

Permalink: Microchipping of owned dogs and cats in Gozo – Gozo SPCA/Gozo Ministry