Battersea warns over identification worries
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home has issued an identification warning to all dog owners prior to this summer’s sporting events taking place.
As the nation gears itself up for a summer of major sporting events, Battersea is urging all pets to have sufficient identification. Following a 70% increase in the number of stray dogs the charity took in during the World Cup in 2010, and a 60% increase over the 24 hours following England’s quarter-final defeat to Germany, Battersea expects to see another rise this summer.
If a higher percentage of owners had their pets microchipped and ensure they wear a collar and tag, Battersea believes more families would be reunited with their dogs. Intake Manager, Sean Welland, explains: “Last year 98% of the dogs that came into Battersea didn’t have an ID tag on their collar and 72% of dogs were not microchipped. This makes it really hard for rescue centres like Battersea to find an animal’s owner.”
Sean adds: “When there are major sporting events on TV, people often turn it into a social occasion inviting friends and family to visit. In situations such as these, where there are more people in the home than normal, it’s common for external doors and gates to be left open; giving dogs the opportunity to escape. If a dog doesn’t have any ID, it is very unlikely that it will be reunited with its owner.”
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.
