Microchipping of dogs set to be compulsory in Scotland

COMPULSORY microchipping of dogs looks set to be introduced, after proposals won the backing of most Scots in a nationwide consultation.

The Scottish Government says it is now looking into the “practicalities” of such a move, which is already being introduced in Wales and England.

But some say it will not go far enough to tackle the threat of dangerous dogs and irresponsible owners after recent attacks on children.

The consultation was launched by Alex Salmond last December after Brogan McCuaig, eight, and four-yearold Sophia Bell were badly injured in separate attacks.

The prospect of compulsory muzzling was rejected by 97 per cent of Scots in a consultation which was published yesterday.

Labour’s Paul Martin, whose Glasgow Springburn constituency covers the Garthamlock area where Brogan was attacked, said microchipping was a “no brainer” which helps promote responsible ownership.

But he warned: “The more difficult areas are how you promote good responsible dog ownership – how do you prevent certain individuals being able to become owners in the first place?

“How do you ensure these dogs are being kept in the environment they should be?”

Mr Martin said more had to be done to enforce existing legislation. Glasgow, for example, has not issued any dog enforcement orders.