The aim of the Vets Get Scanning appeal is:
- Vets We want all vets to adopt a practice policy where all dogs are scanned and microchips checked on their first visit, as well as the back log of dogs that they have registered but have never been scanned. This is the only time a stolen microchipped dog that has been sold to the unsuspecting public will have of coming into contact with a scanner. This will result in stolen dogs being reunited with their rightful owners. Their is a flow chart prepared by RCVS for vets to follow:-RCVS microchip scanning flow chart
- We believe that Permanent ID and the routine Scanning of all dogs are powerful weapons in the fight against Dog Theft. We are very happy that from April 6th 2016 Compulsory Microchipping will be introduced to the UK. We are saddened that the legislation does not include Compulsory Scanning and checking of microchips.
- Dog wardens should scan all strays thoroughly for microchipps on arrival to kennels. Owners only have 7 days to find their pets and then the council can in effect do what they want, rehome or ‘put to sleep’. There is as yet no statutory obligation to scan for microchips – they are dealing with collar & tag codes of practice and would try to contact by phone if a number is available or by putting a card through to the home address.
- Rescues should scan and must cross check the microchip database registration on all ‘surrendered’ or ‘hand in’ pets and scan all strays thoroughly. Once a pet has been rehomed it is a costly and complex procedure, resulting in the fact you may not get your microchipped pet back.
- Network Rail should scan injured and deceased animals and report to local animal warden. There is no legal recourse for a domestic animal on a track. If a vehicle driver hits a dog, by law it must be reported: not so for the railway. Network Rail’s management is fond of stating it has “no duty to domestic dogs”. Cassie’s Law.
- Highway Authorities should scan deceased animals and report to the local animal warden. Harvey’s Army learnt (through the Freedom of Information Act) that the procedure for collecting canine fatalities on the highways has already been phased out in 6 areas. By July 2015 nowhere in the UK will have to log, scan, notify owners or even the identification organisations that they have collected a fatality. This has now been debated and although a success with the Highways the Council roads were not included and therefore pressure still needs to be continued.
- Boarder Controls leaving the UK:- We note your comments about the checking of pets when leaving the UK, and can understand your concerns. Whilst this is not something that is planned at this time, I want to assure you that I have passed your feedback on to the Pet Product Team for future consideration. We take the transportation of pets very seriously and would like to thank you for taking the time to raise these concerns.
Eurotunnel Le Shuttle Customer Relations
customer.relations@eurotunnel.com
- No change of microchip registration should be made without contact being made and checking original keeper.
- A microchip should prove ownership in the case of a stolen/missing dog, which means that the microchip identifies the rightful owner and that the police uphold the law in favour of the rightful owner ensuring that the dog and the owner are reunited without delay.
Isn’t is sad that we need to point out these changes when basically that is what is already expected.
