ICTQual Level 3 Award in Implantation of Identification Microchips in Animals

The ICTQual Level 3 Award in Implantation of Identification Microchips in Animals is a vocational qualification designed for individuals working in the animal care sector who wish to gain the skills and legal recognition required to implant microchips. Microchipping is now a widely adopted practice across the UK and internationally, serving as a reliable method of permanent identification for companion animals such as dogs, cats, and other small mammals.

This award provides learners with a comprehensive understanding of the uses and benefits of microchip identification, including its role in animal welfare, owner accountability, and compliance with national legislation. Learners are trained in the functionality of microchips and scanners, correct implantation sites, and safe handling techniques to ensure both animal and operator safety during the procedure.

The qualification also emphasises ethical and legal responsibilities, ensuring learners understand the frameworks that govern microchip implantation, such as the Microchipping of Dogs Regulations and the Veterinary Surgeons Act. By completing this award, learners are able to confidently implant microchips, assess their functionality, and advise owners on aftercare and maintenance.

Graduates of this programme are recognised as competent microchip implanters, able to work in grooming salons, veterinary practices, rescue centres, pet shops, and welfare organisations. The qualification enhances employability by adding a specialist skill set that is increasingly in demand across the animal care industry.

Ultimately, the ICTQual Level 3 Award empowers learners to contribute to responsible pet ownership, improved animal welfare, and effective traceability, making it a valuable addition to any professional’s portfolio in the pet care sector.

Course overview

Level 3 Award in Implantation of Identification Microchips in Animals

To enrol in ICTQual Level 3 Award in Implantation of Identification Microchips in Animals, learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Learners must typically be 16 years or older at the time of enrolment. The award is suitable for both school leavers and adult learners already engaged in animal care.
  • Educational Background: Intended for individuals working with animals in roles such as dog groomers, kennel staff, pet shop employees, veterinary support staff, or animal welfare volunteers.Learners should have a genuine interest in animal welfare and responsible pet ownership.
  • Professional Experience: No formal academic qualifications are required.Some centres may recommend prior completion of a Level 2 or Level 3 animal care qualification or relevant work experience.Learners should have basic knowledge of animal handling and welfare practices.
  • English Proficiency: As the programme is delivered in English, learners must demonstrate competence in written and spoken English.International learners may need to provide evidence of proficiency through recognised assessments (e.g., IELTS or equivalent), depending on centre requirements.
  • Additional Requirements: Confidence in handling animals of different breeds, sizes, and temperaments is essential.Learners must be able to follow hygiene and safety protocols during practical training.

This qualification, the ICTQual Level 3 Award in Implantation of Identification Microchips in Animals, consists of 3 mandatory units.

  1. Microchip Technology, Scanners, and Implantation Equipment
  2. Animal Handling, Restraint, and Safe Implantation Procedures
  3. Legal, Ethical, and Welfare Responsibilities in Microchip Implantation

Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual Level 3 Award in Implantation of Identification Microchips in Animals:

Microchip Technology, Scanners, and Implantation Equipment

Upon successful completion of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Understand the principles and functions of animal microchip technology.
  • Identify different types of microchips and their appropriate uses across animal species.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of microchip scanners, their operation, and maintenance.
  • Understand radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology and how it applies to animal identification.
  • Recognise the importance of correct microchip storage, handling, and data recording.
  • Apply proper hygiene, calibration, and care procedures for implantation equipment.
  • Identify and troubleshoot common technical issues in microchip implantation equipment.
  • Demonstrate awareness of technological advancements and best practices in animal identification systems.

Animal Handling, Restraint, and Safe Implantation Procedures

Upon successful completion of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Apply safe and humane techniques for handling and restraining different animal species.
  • Recognise behavioural indicators of stress, fear, and aggression in animals.
  • Implement safe implantation procedures following industry standards and welfare guidelines.
  • Select appropriate equipment and microchip types for various species and sizes.
  • Maintain aseptic conditions during the implantation process to prevent infection or injury.
  • Perform post-implantation checks to ensure correct chip placement and functionality.
  • Record implantation details accurately for traceability and compliance.
  • Demonstrate confidence and professional competence in handling live animals during procedures.

Legal, Ethical, and Welfare Responsibilities in Microchip Implantation

Upon successful completion of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Understand the legal requirements and regulations governing animal microchipping.
  • Identify ethical considerations and professional responsibilities in animal identification practices.
  • Comply with data protection and record-keeping standards for animal registration databases.
  • Apply knowledge of animal welfare legislation in all microchip implantation activities.
  • Recognise the importance of owner consent and accurate record verification.
  • Demonstrate professional integrity when handling confidential animal and owner information.
  • Evaluate the consequences of malpractice, negligence, or non-compliance with legal standards.
  • Promote best practices that ensure the safety, welfare, and dignity of animals during microchip implantation.

The ICTQual Level 3 Award in Implantation of Identification Microchips in Animals is designed as a career‑focused qualification. It equips learners with the technical, legal, and welfare knowledge to safely implant microchips, advise owners, and support responsible pet ownership. After completing this award, learners can progress into a variety of professional opportunities across grooming, welfare, veterinary support, and pet services.

  • Work as a qualified microchip implanter in grooming salons, pet shops, or mobile services, offering identification alongside grooming or care packages.
  • Provide specialist support in animal welfare organisations, rescue centres, and shelters, helping ensure dogs, cats, and other small animals are microchipped before rehoming.
  • Collaborate with veterinary practices and clinics, complementing veterinary teams by handling microchip implantation and advising owners on aftercare.
  • Enhance employability by adding a regulated skill set that differentiates learners in the competitive pet care industry.
  • Offer client education and advisory services, guiding owners on the importance of microchipping, legal compliance, and maintaining accurate records.
  • Take on mobile or freelance roles, providing microchip implantation services directly to pet owners or community events.
  • Progress into mentoring or supervisory positions within grooming or welfare businesses, sharing expertise in microchip implantation with colleagues or trainees.
  • Continue professional development through short courses and CPD workshops in related areas such as animal first aid, welfare, or advanced grooming.
  • Build a reputation as a trusted professional in pet identification, opening opportunities for consultancy or partnerships with local councils and pet organisations.

FAQs

The award is open to learners aged 16 and above who are working or intending to work in the animal care sector. Suitable candidates include dog groomers, kennel staff, pet shop employees, veterinary support workers, and welfare volunteers. No advanced academic background is required, but learners should have basic knowledge of animal welfare and confidence in handling animals.

Graduates can work as qualified microchip implanters in grooming salons, pet shops, veterinary practices, rescue centres, and welfare organisations. They may also offer mobile or freelance services, providing microchip implantation directly to pet owners. The qualification enhances employability by adding a regulated skill set that is increasingly in demand across the pet care industry.

The ICTQual Level 3 Award in Implantation of Identification Microchips in Animals is a 3 days training programme designed to be completed in full-time study over this period, with a focus on both theoretical learning and practical application.

ICTQual Level 3 Award in Implantation of Identification Microchips in Animals is offered in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination of both. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, ICTQual Level 3 Award in Implantation of Identification Microchips in Animals, includes assessments consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). These assessments evaluate participants’ understanding of the course material and their ability to apply concepts in practical situations. A minimum score of 75% is required to pass the assessments.cal situations. It is mandatory to pass assessments with a minimum score of 75%