Advice on Microchip scanner sought

Hi all,
My dog has a Home Again chip - I have heard that there are different versions of these.
Can the scanners at UK immigration read all types? (Heathrow or Gatwick) Is it really best to buy a scanner?  Does the scanner travel with us or the dog?

If I need to buy one, any leads on where to get one without busting the already busted bank? 

W.

My cat has a Home Again chip and we had no problem coming over. I was under the impression that Home Again chips were compatible with all the scanners; it's been nearly four years, but I thought that's what the online documentation said. In any case, I didn't buy a scanner, and everything was fine. You might want to check the Home Again website to see what they say.

I contacted the PETS people when we were coming over, as my pets do not have ISO chips.  They said that most major brands of chips can be read at the main import sites (Heathrow/Gatwick).  However, if your chip is not ISO compliant and you want to keep your vaccine records up to date once you enter the UK, you will need to take your own reader to the vet with you. 

Home Again and Avid are the most common types of chips and I have never had a problem reading one of their chips with any kind of scanner I have used (I work at an animal shelter). The scanners we have will also read most of the European chips too. However, if you are really concerned about it, you can rent a scanner rather than buying one.