A cute collar featuring a home phone number is no longer an acceptable identification method for the family pet.
As of this Friday, April 1, every dog in Ireland is required to be microchipped or their owner could face fines of up to €5,000. Puppies must have a microchip fitted before they are 12 weeks old.
The procedure is quick and, according to vets, causes no more discomfort than a standard vaccination. Using a specially designed implanting device the microchip is injected through a sterile needle under the dog's skin.
The owner of each microchipped dog will receive a Government-approved certificate to prove the animal is registered correctly. Without one of these certificates, it will be illegal for a person to pass a dog along to anyone else. Before a dog goes to a new owner, their details must be registered.
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Simon Coveney said microchipping of all dogs "brings a range of benefits including the protection of the welfare of dogs" and assists with speedy identification of stray dogs and their owners.
"It will act as a deterrent for those who abandon dogs and assist in identifying marauding dogs and those that pose a threat to livestock or people." he added.
Pet owners can choose from four databases: Animark, the Irish Coursing Club, Fido and the Irish Kennel Club to register with. Microchipping costs between €20 and €50, depending on the vet you choose.
Is your dog microchipped? Let us know on Twitter @HerFamilydotie.
