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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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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.