The UK Government urges pet owners to microchip their cats and dogs, to give animals the best chance at being reuinted if they get lost or strays.
Since compulsory dog microchipping was introduced in 2016, 92% of dogs are now microchipped. Data has shown a 15 percentage point decrease in dogs handles by local authorities since the change in the law.
Microchipping is a legal requirement for dogs, but not currently for cats. It is reported that 8 out of 10 stray cats handed in to adoption centres in England during 2018 were unchipped.
Animal Welfare Minister Zac Goldsmith said:
“Microchips are often the only hope of reuniting lost pets with their owners so it truly is the best New Year’s resolution you could make to protect your furry friend in 2020. I urge cat owners to microchip their cat and for dog-owners to make sure the details on the chip are up to date.”
