RCVS publishes compulsory microchipping guidance for dogs

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) has announced the publication of new guidance concerning the compulsory microchipping of dogs in England, Scotland and Wales.

Set to come into force April 6th, each nation has created its own regulatory framework, but all will require owners to have their dogs microchipped form the age of eight weeks, or older if they have not already done so.

Each set of regulations includes health exemptions from the new rule, as well as stipulations as to who can implant microchips in dogs and an obligation to report adverse reactions to microchipping.

The guidance is applicable to all veterinary surgeons and nurses, and includes details of the various offences that are being introduced as part of the new regulations. It has been added to the RCVS Code of Professional Conduct.

Laura McClintock, standards and advisory manager at the RCVS, said: "We recommend that veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses familiarise themselves with the regulations applicable in their part of the UK as, despite broad similarities, there are some very slight differences to be mindful of."