England’s dogs to be microchipped by 2016

As part of a UK government attempt to reduce the number of strays and increase owners’ responsibility, from April 2016, all dog owners must have their animals fitted with an RFID-based microchip, or face the penalty of a fine of up to £500, according to reports. Owners will also be held responsible for registering the details of any new owner if they sell or give the dog away. Government figures reveal that more than 100,000 dogs are dumped or lost each year, at a cost of £57m to the taxpayer and welfare charities. The microchip is placed under the skin between the dog’s shoulder blades and stores the pet owner’s contact information. This will allows vets, councils and charities to find out who owns a dog if it is thought to be a stray. To further promote the newly enforced microchip program, animal welfare charities including the Dogs Trust, Battersea Dogs Home, and the Blue Cross, will provide a free chip service.