BASC is reminding gundog owners that time is running out to comply with new microchipping laws.
As of April 6, microchipping will be compulsory for dogs more than eight weeks old in England, Scotland and Wales.* Microchipping is already a legal requirement in Northern Ireland as part of dog licensing legislation.
Microchipping involves injecting a chip the size of a grain of rice under the skin; the chip contains a code linking to details of the dog’s owner on a database. Breeders will be required to microchip puppies before they are rehomed.
BASC game and gamekeeping officer Alex Farrell said: “It is important owners do not fall foul of this new law. Those who fail to meet the new requirements could be fined up to £500. BASC is concerned that many people are unaware of the legislation and their need to take action.”
Dogs Trust is offering free microchipping at events at their re-homing centres and is also working with vets to increase the uptake of microchipping before the deadline.
For more information, visit http://www.chipmydog.org.uk/
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