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Warning over scam microchip registry
The database quoted by UK Pet Chip Registry does not conform to UK government standards.
Website claims to add pets' details to a national database that does not meet government standards.

The Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) has issued a warning about a website advertised on Google that offers pet microchip registration.

The website, named UK Pet Chip Registry, claims that it will add the pet's microchip details to a so-called National Pet Microchip Registration Database for a charge of £15. 

The CTSI states that the quoted database fails to meet government standards for pet microchipping, and therefore does not appear on the list of government-endorsed databases.

The warning comes amid a rise in pet ownership during the COVID-19 pandemic. Late last year, Dogs Trust reported a spoke in demand for puppies, and Google searchers for 'Buy a Puppy' increased by 115 per cent since lockdown began. 

"It is vital that when purchasing a puppy, members of the public must register the chip on one of the 15 databases verified by the UK government. If they do not, they risk a fine of up to £500,” commented Steph Young, CTSI lead officer for animal welfare.

"The database quoted by UK Pet Chip Registry does not conform to UK government standards, and signing up to it alone puts the user at risk of a fine and the needless cost of the money used to pay for it. The public should always follow government guidance, not paid-for adverts on search engines."

Katherine Hart, a fellow Lead Officer at CTSI, added: "The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a great deal of opportunism and in many cases outright scams. Many people suffer from loneliness during the lockdown, and purchasing a furry companion is an increasingly popular option.

"We are all so much more vulnerable now. The public must be increasingly vigilant, sceptical and above all, check the law and UK government advice when making these decisions. Ignorance of the law excuses no one - make sure you register your pet on a verified database."

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.