Welsh Government
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Owners required to microchip their dogs by next April

From April next year it will be a legal requirement for all dogs in Wales to be microchipped, after Assembly Members voted to approve new regulations yesterday (20 October).

The Microchipping of Dogs (Wales) Regulations 2015 will come into force on 6 April 2016 and will require all dogs over eight weeks old to be microchipped, and the keepers’ details registered on an approved database.

Animal welfare is a priority for the Welsh Government as shown in our Animal Health and Welfare Framework. Legislation is part of a suite of measures aimed at improving dog welfare in Wales. This includes the ban on the use of electronic shock collars, the introduction of higher dog breeding standards and the commissioning of a review led by the RSPCA into responsible dog ownership.

Following the vote in the Senedd chamber the Deputy Minister for Farming and Food, Rebecca Evans said:

"I would encourage all dog owners who have not already had their dogs’ microchipped to do so as soon as they can. 

“Pet owners are far more likely to be reunited with their animals if they are lost, stolen or injured if they have been microchipped.

“The ability to trace all dogs back to their owners should encourage more responsible ownership, breeding and help in the control of dangerous and nuisance dogs by creating a link between a dog and its owner.”

Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales, Professor Christianne Glossop, said:

“Microchipping is a simple procedure involving the implantation of a small microchip under the skin of an animal using a needle.  The unique reference number stored on the microchip must then be registered on a corresponding database with the contact details of the animal’s keeper or owner.”

Dogs will still be required by law to wear a collar and tag with the owner’s name and contact details on it when it is in a public place after compulsory microchipping is introduced.

For further information about microchipping, please contact your vet or a suitably trained pet care specialist. Some third sector organisations are also able to offer support to help individuals get their dogs microchipped.

 

Channel website: http://gov.wales

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