The debate was led by Petitions Committee member Jonathan Gullis MP. MPs from all parties could take part, and Victoria Prentis, Minister for Farming, Fisheries and Food, reponded on behalf of the Government.
Fern’s Law: Compulsory to scan & check microchips to reunite stolen dogs, cats
The petition, which received more than 112,000 signatures, states: “Many missing microchipped pets are never reunited as it’s optional to scan & check microchip registration. It’s time veterinary professionals, authorities and rescues checked pet & keeper match on the original database at a pets 1st consultation or yearly checkup. It’s their only chance to get home.”
In response to the petition, the Government said: “BVA and RCVS provide necessary guidance to scan dogs. We will consider reform options including whether this should be mandatory as part of Post Implementation Review of the microchipping regulations.”
Vets to scan prior to euthanasia for Rescue Back up and confirm keeper details
The petition, which received more than 121,000 signatures, states: “A healthy young dog with RBU was euthanised. The person who requested euthanasia was not the registered keeper. Vets must be legally required to scan for rescue back up contact details on microchips and confirm the person presenting the animal is registered on the microchip. Rescue Back Up must be contacted and honoured.”
In response to the petition, the Government said: “The Government understands the distress that the death of a pet can cause and is considering scanning requirements, as part of the Post Implementation Review of the microchipping regulations.”
Correspondence with the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Last year, the Committee wrote to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs George Eustice MP to ask for an update on the Government’s plans to update legislation relating to the microchipping of pets.
