Pet owners urged to get dogs microchipped

Support Adoption For Pets manager Amy Wilson has underlined the importance of making sure your dog is microchipped.

New legislation is set to commence from the 6th April 2016 making it a legal requirement for all dog owners to ensure their pets are microchipped, or could face a £500 fine and a criminal conviction.

Statistics show that around 1.8 million of our furry friends are still without a microchip making them untraceable if they are to go missing, and Amy has advised the public to take responsibility and adhere to the new law.

She said: “We cannot express the importance of getting your dog microchipped. It is to the owner’s advantage and gives piece of mind that your family dog can be returned home.

“It is also vital that all owners keep their contact details up-to-date on a microchip database.”

With more than 100,000 dogs dumped or going missing each year, the RSPCA has echoed Amy’s calls and has welcomed the new legislation.

Dr Samantha Gaines, head of the RSPCA’s companion animals department, said: “We believe compulsory microchipping is a step in the right direction and, if implemented effectively, could lead to significant benefits to dog owners and their pets- for example reuniting them more quickly if they become lost or stray.”

The RSPCA has urged people to attend their local vets to have the minor procedure carried out on their pets. It usually costs around £15, though this may differ depending on where you take your pet.