Guide Dogs calls for rapid microchipping of dogs in Wales

The Welsh Government has launched a consultation on proposals to introduce compulsory microchipping for dogs in Wales. Guide Dogs (www.guidedogs.org.uk) welcomes the consultation but wants to see microchipping introduced without delay.

Commenting on the launch of the consultation, David Cowdrey, Campaigns Manager at Guide Dogs, said:

“Guide Dogs welcomes the consultation on microchipping but would like to see the measure introduced without delay. One option that has been set out is to microchip new puppies and dogs only when they transfer ownership. Under this option, it would take 10-12 years for all dogs to be microchipped, which is far too long.

“We believe that microchipping will encourage responsible dog ownership and will prevent owners of dangerous dogs from denying responsibility if a dog carries out an attack.

“Attacks on guide dogs by other dogs is an issue that we’re increasingly concerned about. They are deeply distressing for our guide dogs owners. If a guide dog is attacked by another dog, their owner will be left relying on friends and family to do the everyday things that the rest of us take for granted. If we have to retire a guide dog after an attack, the guide dog owner can be left unable to get out and about independently. With guide dogs costing around £50,000 to breed, train and look after through their working life, it’s also costly for us as a charity that relies on the generosity of the public.”

For more information or case studies, please contact James Kell in Guide Dogs' press office on 0118 983 8192 or james.kell@guidedogs.org.uk

Notes for editors:
About The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association:
The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association is a British charitable organisation founded in 1934. Guide Dogs provides independence and freedom to thousands of blind and partially sighted people across the UK through the provision of guide dogs, mobility and other rehabilitation services. It also campaigns passionately for the rights of those with visual impairments. Guide Dogs is working towards a society in which blind and partially sighted people enjoy the same freedom of movement as everyone else.
 

Name: James Kell
Title: Communications Officer
Tel: (0118) 983 8192

The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association
Hillfields
Burghfield Common
Reading
Berkshire RG7 3YG
website: www.guidedogs.org.uk