Labradors the most likely to leg it
Restless retrievers are the breed of dog most likely to go walkabout, according to new research. The survey, compiled from 2,000 dog owners across Britain for Blue Cross pet charity, also revealed that over half of the nations dogs have run off at least once in the past.
The research, released a year ahead of new dog microchipping rules coming into force, showed that almost of half the dog owners questioned did not know it will be compulsory by law for all dogs to be microchipped next spring (6 April 2016). Many weren’t even aware of existing laws, with over 70% not knowing they could face a fine if their dog isn’t wearing a collar and tag when in public and less than 1% knew the fine for breaking this regulation can be up to £5,000.
The charity has long recommended owners microchip their pets to help reunite them if they go missing. Sadly, Blue Cross rehoming centres admitted 1,673 stray dogs and cats last year because their owners could not be traced.
Sarah Bussell, Rehoming Supervisor at Blue Cross said: “It is important to teach your dog to come back to you when called and make sure it wears a tag and is microchipped, which will help increase the chances of you being reunited if they become lost. It also means you will be fully compliant with the law in time for the new regulations about microchipping coming into force”
The survey revealed that one in five owners doesn’t have their pet dog microchipped, and half of these owners admit they probably won’t have it done. This could mean approximately two million dogs still need to be microchipped and owners are risking a hefty fine in a year’s time¹.
Sarah added: “So many animals arrive at our centres as strays but they have clearly been cared for and could be much-loved and much missed pets. Dogs like Taters who is just over a year old and came to us from the pound. She is a lovely dog who understands basic commands so someone must have taken the time to train her. Her owner could be missing her if she is lost but without a microchip there is no way we can trace them. She’s currently being cared for by Blue Cross until will find her a loving new home.”
Blue Cross offers pet owners microchipping for free at its rehoming centres and animal hospitals. Find your nearest location at www.bluecross.org.uk.
