Have a question?
033 3772 0409

Legal News

Dog microchipping compulsory from 6 April (6 April 2016)

Date: 06/04/2016
Duncan Lewis, Legal News Solicitors, Dog microchipping compulsory from 6 April

The new legislation on the compulsory microchipping of dogs comes into force today (06/04/16) – under the new measures, all owners must ensure their dog is microchipped and their details are kept up to date.

This will enable the UK’s 8.5 million dogs to be returned to their owners more quickly if they wander too far from home, says the government – and it will also make it easier to track down the owners of dogs which carry out attacks.

So far, figures show that 86% of UK dog owners have had their pets implanted with a microchip and their details updated on a national database.

More than 102,000 dogs which are picked up from the UK’s streets every year, having strayed or been stolen.

A dog can be microchipped by a veterinary surgeon – and some organisations such as Dogs Trust, Blue Cross centres, Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, and some vets and councils will microchip a dog free of charge.

When a dog is microchipped, the microchip has a unique number, which will show up whenever the dog is scanned. The professional who microchips the dog will also make a record of the owner’s contact details and all information is kept on a national database.

The dog must still wear a collar and tag with the owner’s name and address when in a public place – and the owner is responsible for keeping the microchip information up-to-date, eg if they move house.

A vet or dog warden can scan dogs and advise owners of the microchip number if an owner loses their record of it.

When buying a dog, the new owner should ask for proof a microchip has been implanted before buying a dog – and should ask to see a microchip certificate, veterinary records, a pet passport, or pet insurance papers.

Commenting on the new law, Animal Welfare Minister George Eustice said:

“Every responsible dog owner wants to know their pet is safe.

“Microchipping will not only reunite people with their lost or stolen pets, but also help to tackle the growing problem of strays roaming the streets and relieve the burden placed on animal charities and local authorities.

“We are a nation of dog lovers and microchipping is crucial for both good dog welfare and to provide dog owners with peace of mind.

“From today, owners of dogs found by the police or local authorities not to have a microchip will have the benefits explained to them and be given a short period to comply with the microchipping law.

“If they do not, they could face a fine of up to £500.”

Duncan Lewis Criminal Solicitors

Duncan Lewis can advise dog owners on charges relating to animal welfare, microchipping and allegations of unprovoked dog attacks on members of the public or others on pubic or private property under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 (amended 2014).

There are Duncan Lewis offices nationwide and in most major cities.

Duncan Lewis is a leading firm of Legal Aid criminal defence solicitors and offers competitively priced fixed fees whenever possible in cases where Legal Aid is not available.

For expert legal advice on all charges relating to animal welfare, dog owners’ legal duties and the Dangerous Dogs Act, call Duncan Lewis criminal solicitors on 0333 772 0409.

Call us now on 033 3772 0409 or click here to send online enquiry.
Duncan Lewis is the trading name of Duncan Lewis (Solicitors) Limited. Registered Office is Spencer House, 29 Grove Hill Road, Harrow, HA1 3BN. Company Reg. No. 3718422. VAT Reg. No. 718729013. A list of the company's Directors is displayed at the registered offices address. Authorised and Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority . Offices all across London and in major cities in the UK. ©Duncan Lewis >>Legal Disclaimer, Copyright & Privacy Policy. Duncan Lewis do not accept service by email.