Russell Brown MP ‘chips in’ to tackle stray dog problem
MP shows support for compulsory microchipping at local event
Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity was delighted to be able to welcome Russell Brown MP to a microchipping event in Dumfries & Galloway constituency earlier this week.
The event, held at Whithorn New Town Hall was a great success, with local residents encouraged to bring their four legged friends along to take advantage of the free microchipping service on offer. A total of 59 dogs were chipped on the day while Dogs Trust representatives were also on hand to offer advice and answer any general queries, reminding dog owners of the importance of keeping their microchip database details up to date.
With microchipping set to become compulsory for all dogs in England in 2016 and Wales in 2015, Dogs Trust believes that the time is right for the Scottish Government to legislate for this important aspect of dog welfare, and has been campaigning on this issue for many years. Roving teams of Dogs Trust representatives are touring the country in a bid to help promote responsible dog ownership and educate the public on the benefits of compulsory microchipping.
Russell Brown MP was able to talk with members of his constituency and dicuss their views on the issue while learning just how vital compulsory microchipping is in reuniting stray dogs with their owners, deterring dog theft and reducing puppy farming.
Commenting on the event, Russell Brown MP said:
“I was delighted to be invited to attend this microchipping event in my constituency. It was a wonderful opportunity to see the work of Dogs Trust first hand and to learn just how significant microchipping can be in helping return lost or stray dogs to their owners. I support the work of Dogs Trust and believe that compulsory microchipping is a major step forward in dog welfare.
“While the Westminster Government is introducing compulsory microchipping legislation for England in 2016, I would like to see similar legislation take effect here in Scotland. I urge local dog owners to ensure their dogs are microchipped where possible, taking advantage of this simple and effective tool.”
