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Posted: 4th December 2015

Milestone reached for Scottish microchipping law

Compulsory dog microchipping is expected to come into force in England, Wales and Scotland in April 2016.

New rules to be introduced in April 2016

Scotland is set to introduce compulsory dog microchipping by April 2016, at the same time as England and Wales.

The legislation was laid before Scottish Parliament yesterday (3 Dec), marking a major step forward.

Under the new law, all dogs in Scotland will need a microchip and their owners' details must be registered and kept up to date on a database that complies with certain rules.

Rural affairs secretary Richard Lochhead said: "Today marks an important milestone towards compulsory microchipping, which will help reduce the number of lost and abandoned dogs in Scotland - safeguarding animal welfare and promoting responsible ownership.

"As well as reuniting pets with their owners, it will allow authorities to directly identify dog owners and hold them accountable for their dogs' behaviour and welfare."

A Scottish consultation on responsible dog ownership in 2013-14 found 83 per cent of respondents supported compulsory microchipping.

Owners with unchipped dogs are now being urged to get their pets microchipped in time for the new legislation. The Dogs Trust has revealed it will be offering free microchipping in Scotland at mobile drop-in events and at its two rehoming centres.

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal
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.

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