Letter: No excuse not to chip dogs
Despite the fact that microchipping of dogs has been compulsory for many months we are still getting stray dogs that are not chipped or whose chip details are not valid.
Why? Is it because owners simply can't be bothered or that too many people believe that their pet will never get out or stray.
This law was put in place not just to make owners more responsible but to save dogs' lives.
If a dog ends up, for whatever reason, in a kennel that destroys unclaimed strays after a certain length of time, it could be put to sleep because the kennel has no way of finding the owner.
Anyone's dog may slip its lead, break its collar, be frightened when out on a walk.
Visitors or children may leave gates open, fences blow down etc. If a dog has a chip with correct details even if it loses its collar and tag it can be returned to its owner quickly and safely.
With a chip a dog can be recovered when you are away on holiday, visiting friends or is being looked after by someone else. For your dog's sake please get it chipped and make sure you keep your details current. If you love your dog you will do it!
Marty Burrell, Hilbrae Rescue Kennels, Cold Hatton
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