We call on Defra to amend The Microchipping of Cats and Dogs (England) Regulations 2023. Databases must not transfer keeper registration for a lost or stolen pet if the original keeper is contactable and has not given consent. This could stop thieves or finders re-registering pets in their name.
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Microchipping is meant to reunite lost and stolen pets. Databases claim the current regulations force them to record the new “keeper” (where the animal lives) and transfer details even when the original owner is known. We believe that re-registration of reported lost or stolen pets must not override the rights of the original keeper. We feel that this loophole undermines the Pet Abduction Act 2024 and defeats the purpose of microchipping. Defra must close it to protect owners, deter theft and improve trust in the system.