ICTQual Level 3 Animal Microchipping Award
The ICTQual Level 3 Award in Implantation of Identification Microchips in Animals is a professionally recognised qualification designed for individuals who want to gain the knowledge and practical skills required to safely and effectively implant identification microchips in animals. With animal welfare, traceability, and legal compliance becoming increasingly important worldwide, this qualification provides essential training aligned with industry standards and best practices.
This course focuses on the correct procedures for microchip implantation, animal handling and restraint, infection control, health and safety, and relevant legislation governing animal identification. Learners gain a clear understanding of animal anatomy, welfare considerations, and ethical responsibilities to ensure microchipping is carried out humanely and accurately. The programme combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, enabling learners to develop confidence and competence in real-world settings.
The qualification is ideal for veterinary assistants, animal welfare workers, breeders, animal control officers, pet professionals, and individuals working within animal care and management sectors. It also suits those seeking to enhance their professional profile or meet regulatory requirements related to animal identification. On successful completion, learners gain a recognised Level 3 award that supports career development while contributing to improved animal welfare and responsible ownership practices.
Key Information
The ICTQual Level 3 Award in Implantation of Identification Microchips in Animals is a practical, 3-day training programme designed to equip learners with the skills and knowledge required to safely and accurately implant identification microchips in animals. Comprising three focused units, the course provides comprehensive guidance on microchipping procedures, animal handling, and legal and ethical considerations.
The course covers key areas such as preparation for microchipping, correct implantation techniques, equipment handling, hygiene and infection control, and post-implantation checks. Learners also study animal behaviour, safe restraint methods, and how to minimise stress and discomfort during the procedure. Emphasis is placed on accuracy, record keeping, and compliance with animal identification legislation and industry codes of practice.
Assessment focuses on demonstrating practical competence alongside underpinning knowledge, ensuring learners can perform microchipping procedures safely and responsibly. The qualification supports consistent standards across animal care, veterinary support, and welfare services.
This award is suitable for those working or seeking to work in animal care, veterinary support, breeding, rescue centres, or animal identification services. It also benefits organisations that require trained personnel to meet legal and welfare obligations related to animal microchipping.
Unit Structure
This qualification, the ICTQual Level 3 Award in Implantation of Identification Microchips in Animals, consists of 3 mandatory units.
- Microchip Technology, Scanners, and Implantation Equipment
- Animal Handling, Restraint, and Safe Implantation Procedures
- Legal, Ethical, and Welfare Responsibilities in Microchip Implantation
Recommended For
The ICTQual Level 3 Award in Implantation of Identification Microchips in Animals is a practical 3-day training programme designed to provide learners with the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to safely implant microchips in animals. The course is structured across three comprehensive units and is ideal for veterinary and animal care professionals.
Key Learning Areas:
- Microchipping Procedures: Step-by-step training on safe and accurate implantation techniques.
- Animal Handling and Welfare: Proper handling methods to minimise stress and ensure animal safety during the procedure.
- Legal and Ethical Compliance: Understanding identification regulations, record-keeping, and responsibilities under animal welfare legislation.
Practical Application:
- Hands-on demonstrations and supervised practice to build confidence and competence.
- Scenario-based exercises to prepare learners for real-world microchipping situations.
- Focus on hygiene, health, and safety standards throughout the procedure.
Who Should Enrol:
- Veterinary nurses and assistants
- Animal welfare and rescue staff
- Pet care professionals responsible for animal identification
- Individuals aiming to comply with legal and ethical microchipping standards
This course ensures learners leave with practical skills, regulatory knowledge, and confidence to perform microchipping safely and professionally.
What You’ll Be Able to Do
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.
