Readers' letters

In response,

Petlog are happy to hear about Charlotte Hazeldon's support for microchipping and interested in her thoughts and opinions in how microchips help pets. She has raised a number of questions that we are happy to address.

Currently microchip databases are funded almost entirely by the charges for changing contact details. The initial cost at implantation mainly goes to the implanter and microchip manufacturer and so the £10 one off lifetime charge for changing details is to fund the operational costs of the database which in Petlog's case is managed 24/7. There are no further costs should any further changes be needed for the lifetime of the pet.

The costs associated with microchipping remain just a small percentage cost of owning a pet for life, as sponsors of National Microchipping Month, Petlog have taken on board the important issue of the need for owners to keep their contact details up to date and therefore the costs associated with this. For this year's campaign June 2011, Petlog is offering the facility for pet owners to update their details for FREE online for pets microchipped and registered with Petlog. In addition Petlog are offering the Petlog Premium lifetime service at a reduced fee of £7.50. This has been publicized at BSAVA, in the veterinary and veterinary nurse press and through welfare and local authorities.