Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee Written evidence submitted by The Welsh Assembly

Compulsory Microchipping of Dogs

The Welsh Government has recently held a public consultation on proposed ways of introducing compulsory microchipping of dogs in Wales. The proposals ranged from requiring all dogs in Wales to be microchipped as soon as the Regulations come into force, to microchipping upon transfer of ownership, to microchipping within an agreed period of time eg one year. The consultation also asked questions about cost impact, exemptions and data handling.

Approximately 120 unique responses were received, with a further 1,000 (approximate) campaign emails received. The responses are currently being analysed, but appear to be primarily positive to the concept of microchipping.

The Docking of Working Dogs’ Tails (Wales) Regulations 2007 require all dogs, who have their tails docked, to be microchipped prior to 12 weeks of age. The draft Animal Welfare (Breeding of Dogs) (Wales) Regulations 2012 will also require all dogs on breeding establishments to be microchipped, as well as puppies before they are 56 days old or prior to transfer of ownership.

Control of Dogs

The First Minister announced during his annual legislative programme statement on 17 July 2012 that the Draft Control of Dogs (Wales) Bill would be published for consultation in the Autumn. The underlying principle to be enshrined in the Bill would be responsible ownership of dogs and active intervention where dogs are deemed to be out of control.

September 2012