Proof of ownership

Pet Microchip Proof of Ownership: What Can You Use?

A microchip record is not automatically proof of legal ownership. If a database asks you to support a keeper-transfer request, gather documents showing how the pet came into your care.

Useful evidence to gather

  • Purchase or adoption agreement
  • Rescue or breeder paperwork
  • Payment receipt or written messages about the handover
  • Veterinary records in your name
  • Pet insurance or travel documents
  • Any previous microchip certificate

Who decides if the evidence is enough?

The database holding the record decides what evidence it will accept and whether further verification with the currently registered keeper is needed.

PetChipHelp is an independent guidance service. We can help identify the database and explain the process, but official microchip records are changed by the database provider that holds the registration.

Have the microchip number?

Check which database appears to hold the record, then go straight to the right provider.

Check the chip number