Dog owners reminded about new microchipping law

Dog owners have just three weeks to get their pets microchipped before the becomes compulsory by law.
Dog owners are being reminded about the new law  pictured is Billy Elliott, from animal charity WadarsDog owners are being reminded about the new law  pictured is Billy Elliott, from animal charity Wadars
Dog owners are being reminded about the new law  pictured is Billy Elliott, from animal charity Wadars

Charity Wadars – the Worthing & District Animal Rescue Service – is reminding owners that the law, which comes into force on Wednesday, April 6, will mean anyone who does not have their dog microchipped could face criminal prosecution and a £500 fine.

Tracy Cadman, Wadars operations manager, said: “The new law is a very welcome step forward and will make it easier for lost dogs to be reunited with their owners. Obviously, as well as having the animal chipped, it is vital to ensure that contact details are kept up to date when owners move house or change their telephone number, so that they can be contacted.

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“Although the new law specifically relates to dogs, we would always strongly advise pet owners to have their cats, rabbits, and other small pets chipped, too, so that if they go missing and are taken into a vet or other animal shelter they will be able to trace who owns them and ensure their speedy return.”

As part of the new law, all puppies must be microchipped by the time they are eight weeks old and it will be illegal for breeders to sell a puppy that is not microchipped and registered on an authorised database that meets the legal requirements.

Dog owners can have their pet microchipped for free at Dogs Trust rehoming centres, including the one in Brighton Road, Shorehamclick here for more information.

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