Rebecca Evans, Deputy Minister for Farming and Food
This was published under the 2011 to 2016 administration of the Welsh Government
I am pleased to inform you that the results of the public consultation on technical aspects pertaining to the introduction of compulsory microchipping of dogs in Wales have been published today on the Welsh Government website.
In 2012, a consultation exercise took place on the general policy principles of microchipping all dogs in Wales. At that time, 84% of respondents were supportive of introducing compulsory microchipping for dogs. The results of this most recent consultation follow a similar pattern. The percentage of consultee responses to the questions asked ranged positively from 58% to 84%.
Given that the consultation has reflected a positive view to move forwards, regulations are currently being drafted, taking into consideration the issues raised during the consultation process.
As set out in my Written Statement of 16 February 2015, we are working to bring in compulsory microchipping for all dogs in Wales in the spring of 2016. This is in line with the date announced for compulsory microchipping in England and, more recently announced, in Scotland.