Implanting a microchip in pet dogs and cats and registering the owner’s contact information will become mandatory in June under the revised Law on Welfare and Management of Animals according to a new report.

Breeders and pet shops will be required to implant a microchip in dogs and cats before they are sold. The aim of the new regulation is to prevent owners from easily abandoning their pets, help owners reunite with lost pets, and reduce the number of stray animals put down.

“Implanting a microchip in pets leads the owners to have the determination and responsibility for taking care of their pets throughout their life,” said an official of P’s-first Co., a major pet shop operator in Tokyo. “Most of our customers understand [the importance of implanting a microchip].”

Since 2006, the company has voluntarily had chips implanted in all dogs and cats it sells. A microchip for dogs and cats is cylindrical and about 2 millimeters in diameter and 1 centimeter long. It is inserted with a syringe in such areas as the back of the animal’s neck.

The chip records a 15-digit identification number, which is tagged to the owner’s name, address, telephone number, and other information registered in a database operated by a private entity. If pet dogs and cats are found on the street or in other locations, their owners will be contacted based on the information contained in the chips. FULL REPORT