BVA welcomes Welsh Government’s clarification on timetable for dog microchipping
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) and its Welsh Branch welcome the announcement from Rebecca Evans, Deputy Minister for Farming and Food, that clarifies the Welsh Governments timetable for the introduction of compulsory microchipping for dogs in Wales
Rebecca Evans has clearly outlined the next steps towards compulsory microchipping in Wales, including further consultation around enforcement, implantation of microchips and the recording of information. The Welsh Government is now working towards bringing in compulsory microchipping in the Spring of 2016, in line with the date announced for compulsory microchipping in England.
BVA and its Welsh Branch are pleased to have a clear timetable after a period of uncertainty and welcome the consultation on details relating to enforcements, implantation and the way information is recorded. BVA continues to stress that it is vitally important that microchips are only implanted by those trained to do so and that all databases should be properly coordinated with a single point of entry.
BVA also fully supports the Minister’s commitment to cross-border working and collaboration between England and Wales. At the same time, BVA continues to urge the Scottish Government to commit to compulsory microchipping in Scotland.
BVA President John Blackwell said:
“We are pleased that we now have a clear timetable for the introduction of compulsory microchipping of dogs in Wales, with careful due diligence given to ensure the details of implementation are right. It is important that these details are worked out and worked through before microchipping becomes compulsory – for example it is critical that it is clear who can and cannot implant microchips. We look forward to working with our colleagues in Wales and the Welsh Government to create a robust, trusted system that works smoothly and efficiently for dog owners and vets alike. We also urge the Scottish Government to no longer delay in committing to compulsory microchipping so that we have alignment in microchipping policy throughout the UK.”
Rob Davies, BVA President Welsh Branch, commented:
“Our members across Wales will be very pleased that we have both a clear timetable and a clear commitment to getting the details of implementation right. We will work with Rebecca Evans and her team in the coming year to help get the message out to vets and their clients across Wales about the introduction of these important regulations in 2016, making sure that owners are well-prepared and know their responsibilities.”
