Dog owners race to meet microchipping deadline

LONG queues were reported at some Mayo veterinary surgeries yesterday as dog owners raced to get their pets microchipped.

Dog owners and breeders had until yesterday (March 31) to comply with new laws which make it compulsory to have all dogs microchipped and registered with a government-approved database.

As part of the new legislation dog owners must also have a certificate from the database provider to prove that the dog is properly microchipped and registered. Dog owners must also keep their contact details up to date and register any change of contact details or change of ownership on the database.

Microchipping of all dogs brings a range of benefits, including the protection of the welfare of dogs and speedy identification of stray dogs and their owners.

It will also act as a deterrent for those who abandon dogs and assist in identifying marauding dogs and those that pose a threat to livestock or people.