Guide Dogs supports introduction of compulsory microchipping for dogs in Northern Ireland

Guide Dogs Campaigns Manager David Cowdrey said:  “We see this as a really important step towards responsible dog ownership and helping to reduce the number of attacks on guide dogs. We’d now like to see Defra follow theNorthern Irelandexample and introduce compulsory microchipping inEngland.”

Guide Dogs remains concerned about the number of reports of attacks on guide dogs by other dogs. David Cowdrey added: “When a dog is attacked, it’s a traumatic experience for the guide dog owner and can stop them getting out and about on their own. In the worst cases, the guide dog has to be retired, which is not only distressing for the guide dog owner but it is also costly for us. A guide dog costs around £50,000 to breed, train and support.”