Battersea’s latest survey of 50 Local Authorities across the UK found almost nine in ten (87%) stray dogs were unable to be reunited with their owners using a microchip alone because the details were missing, inaccurate or unavailable.

Almost one third (32%) of stray dogs collected by Local Authorities in 2026 were not microchipped at all, despite it being a legal requirement since 2016, and more than one in three (34%) stray dogs had a microchip registered with outdated owner details – a significant barrier to reuniting lost pets with their families.

However, the research also found that microchipping regulations have helped reduce the number of stray dogs entering Local Authority care, with 57% fewer stray dogs collected in 2026 compared to 2016. But outdated owner records, missing microchips, and fragmented databases are preventing the law from working as effectively as it should.

Scott Fryer, Policy Manager at Battersea, said: “Battersea's research shows just how important microchipping remains – dogs with microchips that are up to date are more than four times as likely to be reunited with their owners than those without one.

“However, a decade on from the introduction of compulsory microchipping, we are seeing too many pets slip through the cracks.”

Although fewer dogs are entering Local Authority care overall, Battersea’s research suggests councils are increasingly dealing with the most difficult-to-reunite cases.

When accurate microchip records cannot be accessed, dogs can spend longer in kennels while Local Authorities attempt to trace owners, increasing pressure on already stretched services and delaying potential reunions.

Battersea is calling on the UK Government to urgently implement the reforms to the microchipping system announced in 2024, including creating a single point of search across all databases, introducing annual reminders for owners to check their details, and strengthening traceability across the system.

Scott Fryer said: “The previous Government recognised the need for change and committed to reforms that would make the microchipping system easier and more effective. These improvements should now be delivered without delay.

“Owners also have a vital role to play. Taking a few minutes to check that your dog’s microchip details are correct could make all the difference if they ever go missing.”

For further advice on pet microchipping, visit the Battersea website here: [https://www.battersea.org.uk/pet-advice/dog-advice/dog-microchipping]

You can read Battersea’s latest Microchipping report here: [https://bdch.org.uk/files/BAT_Microchipping_Stray_Dog_Report_2026.pdf]

-Ends-

For further information, images or interviews please contact press@battersea.org.uk.

Notes to editors

• At Battersea, we offer our love and expert care to dogs and cats who need us by rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals at our centres, and by sharing our knowledge and resources with rescue organisations around the world. We do this because we want to help every dog and cat, everywhere.

• In 2025, Battersea directly cared for 1,989 dogs and 1,745 cats at our three centres. We also helped thousands more through campaigning work, supporting other rescues and animal welfare advocates, and sharing knowledge and advice with pet owners.

• In addition to the site in South West London, Battersea also has two other centres based at Brands Hatch, Kent and in Old Windsor, Berkshire.

• To find out more, visit Battersea’s website or follow Battersea on Instagram @battersea or facebook.com/Battersea and TikTok @battersea

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