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Welsh Government seeks views on dog microchipping
Microchip
"We are now asking for views on some of the more technical aspects of how this would work in practice with a view to bringing in compulsory microchipping in spring 2016."
Wider views sought on specific elements of new regulations

A public consultation on plans to introduce compulsory microchipping of all dogs has been launched by the Welsh Government.

The Welsh Government initially consulted on microchipping all dogs in Wales in 2012. Specific technical details including who is able to chip dogs, what information should be recorded and how, have needed further discussion before legislation could progress.

In a statement this week, Welsh deputy minister for farming and food, Rebecca Evans, said: "When we originally consulted on introducing compulsory microchipping, 84 per cent of respondents supported the idea. We are now asking for views on some of the more technical aspects of how this would work in practice with a view to bringing in compulsory microchipping in spring 2016. This is in line with the date for both England and Scotland."

"Until then, I encourage all dog owners in Wales to microchip their animals. Dogs that are chipped are far more likely to be returned to their owners if they are lost or injured. Dog owners wanting advice on the benefit of microchipping should contact their local veterinary surgeon or qualified implanter."

The Welsh Government's decision to introduce compulsory microchipping is just one aspect of their work to improve dog welfare.  In 2012, they legislated to ban electronic shock collars and from 30 April, 2015 new standards will be introduced for licensed dog breeders.

The consultation is now open and closes on 10 May. To respond, visit: www.gov.wales/consultations

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Cold-water dip to raise funds for Vetlife

News Story 1
 The veterinary mental health charity Vetlife is inviting the veterinary community to join it for a sponsored cold-water dip.

The event will take place at Walpole Bay, Margate, on 17 May during Mental Health Awareness Week. Participants of all abilities can join in the challenge and are advised to bring a towel, a hot drink, a snack, and warm clothes to get changed into afterwards.

Those taking part are being asked to try to raise 100 each to support the work of the charity.

Details about how to take part can be found here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Bluetongue low vector period ends

In an update to its bluetongue guidance, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has announced that the seasonal low vector period for the disease has ended.

With winter over, Defra is planning for a possible increase in cases as midges become more active. It has warned that farms along the east coast of England from Norfolk to Kent, and along the south coast from Kent to Devon, are at highest risk from infected midges blown over from northern Europe.

Since the virus was detected in England in November 2023, there have been 126 confirmed cases. The most recent case to be confirmed was on 1 March 2024.

Farmers are asked to continue to frequently monitor their livestock and ensure their animals and land are registered with the Animal and Plant Health Agency.