Dog microchipping becomes compulsory
Veterinary associations and welfare charities alike have hailed the introduction of compulsory microchipping as a giant leap forward for dogs and their owners.
The compulsory microchipping of all dogs in England will come into force on 6 April 2016, and all owners must have microchipped their pet by this date. The government says that any owner whose dog is found without a chip will be traced by local authorities, and they will be given a short period of time in which to have the dog microchipped. Any owner who refuses to comply will face fines of up to £500.
Government figures reveal that over 100,000 dogs are abandoned or lost every year, at a cost of £57 million to the taxpayer and welfare charities. It is hoped that the change in the law will help to reunite owners with lost or stolen pets in a more timely manner, thereby easing pressures on animal charities and local authorities.
The BVA and BSAVA, who have long campaigned for compulsory microchipping have expressed their support for the new legislation, which is to be drafted by DEFRA. BVA president Peter Jones commented: "The introduction of compulsory microchipping is a giant leap for dogs and their owners and is something that vets have long campaigned for. Microchipping is a safe and effective way to link dogs to their owners and is an essential part of responsible ownership."
BSAVA president Mark Johnston added: "The ability to reunite stray dogs with their grateful owners is a great thrill in veterinary practice, and so we warmly welcome today's announcement. But microchips are only as useful as the information on the database so it is essential that owners realise that they must keep their details up to date."
The Dogs Trust have referred to the new legislation as a watershed for dog welfare, and will be donating free microchips to veterinary practices. Welcoming the governments announcement, CEO of the charity Clarissa Baldwin said: " For many years the Dogs Trust has led the campaign for the introduction of compulsory microchipping and we applaud the decision the government has taken which represents a hugely significant and progressive breakthrough for dog welfare." The Kennel Club has also pledged to gift microchip scanners to every local authority in England and Wales in support of the changes.
As part of the changes to the Animal Welfare Act, a legal loophole could also be closed, allowing owners to be prosecuted if their dog attacks on private land. These measures were also supported by both the BVA and BSAVA. Commenting on the changes Peter Jones said "extending the law to cover private places sends a strong message that dogs must be kept under control at all times and reinforces the message of responsible ownership."
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
