Compulsory dog microchipping

A leading animal charity says Welsh Government plans to make microchipping of all dogs compulsory doesn't go far enough.

The RSPCA want ministers to introduce a compulsory dog registration scheme.

It argues that it will hold owners to account, help reduce the number of dogs abandoned and promote dog welfare.

Watch: Wales This Week - Dogs Collared - calls for new dangerous dogs laws

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) says it is "delighted" the Welsh Government's announcement that all dogs in Wales must be microchipped by 1 March 2015.

The decision follows a public consultation here.

Compulsory microchipping legislation came into force in Northern Ireland last year, and will be introduced in England from April 2016.

There are approximately 190,000 dogs in Wales that would need to be microchipped, if it becomes compulsory. There are an estimated 450,000 dogs in Wales and it is estimated that some 58% are already microchipped.

RSPCA Cymru believes that compulsory microchipping will help make it easier to identify the owners of those dogs that have strayed or are being mistreated, neglected, abandoned or lost. The Welsh Government has announced plans to have all dogs in Wales microchipped by 1 March 2015.

The RSPCA has welcomed plans to microchip all of Wales' dogs by 2015. Following a consultation over compulsory dog microchipping, the Welsh Government has announced plans to draw up new regulations. Despite the announcement, the RSPCA says moe could be done.

All dogs in Wales must be microchipped by 2015. New regulations to be set out by the Welsh Government aim to set up a clear link between dogs and their owners. It is hoped this will encourage an increase in responsible dog ownership.