Is your pet tagged and chipped?

  • Published
  • By Yvonne Chadwick
  • 48th Force Support Squadron
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  The U.K. Control of Dogs Order 1992 states that any dog in a public place must wear a collar with an ID tag; to include the owner's name, address (with post code if possible) and a contact number. Failing to meet this criteria could result in a fine up to £5,000 or more than $7,000.

Along with the ID tags, a new law will soon be in effect for all pets U.K.-wide, which will require them to be micro chipped. However, this policy is already in effect for Department of Defense employees.

It is base regulation for all military personnel, civilians and contractors assigned to RAF Lakenheath to have all pets micro-chipped and registered with the RAF Feltwell Veterinary Clinic whether they live on or off base.

A micro-chip, approximately the size of a grain of rice, is implanted between the pet's shoulder blades under the skin with a needle and special syringe. It is similar to a shot, causing little to no pain for the pet. Once placed, the pet must be registered with the micro-chip company, usually for a one-time fee.

The RAF Feltwell Veterinary Clinic is giving away vouchers for $5 off every microchip appointment during June 2012. To make an appointment, call 226-7097. The clinic is in building 80 next to the military working dog section.

To register your pets, visit the clinic or go to www.48forcesupport.com, click on the family tab and then select vets. There is a downloadable form to fill out that can be emailed, posted or faxed to the clinic.