Milestone reached for Scottish microchipping law
Compulsory dog microchipping is expected to come into force in England, Wales and Scotland in April 2016.
Scotland is set to introduce compulsory dog microchipping by April 2016, at the same time as England and Wales.
The legislation was laid before Scottish Parliament yesterday (3 Dec), marking a major step forward.
Under the new law, all dogs in Scotland will need a microchip and their owners' details must be registered and kept up to date on a database that complies with certain rules.
Rural affairs secretary Richard Lochhead said: "Today marks an important milestone towards compulsory microchipping, which will help reduce the number of lost and abandoned dogs in Scotland - safeguarding animal welfare and promoting responsible ownership.
"As well as reuniting pets with their owners, it will allow authorities to directly identify dog owners and hold them accountable for their dogs' behaviour and welfare."
A Scottish consultation on responsible dog ownership in 2013-14 found 83 per cent of respondents supported compulsory microchipping.
Owners with unchipped dogs are now being urged to get their pets microchipped in time for the new legislation. The Dogs Trust has revealed it will be offering free microchipping in Scotland at mobile drop-in events and at its two rehoming centres.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
