Dogs Trust Malta today welcomed plans for all dogs in Malta to be microchipped by law.

The charity launched a nationwide neutering, microchipping and education initiative with SPCA Malta in 2009. The plans were announced by the Resources Ministry yesterday.

Sarah De Cesare, Dogs Trust Malta Campaigns Manager, said:

“We’re delighted that microchipping has been recognised as a vital part of being a responsible dog owner. By permanently linking a dog to its owner the authorities will be able to swiftly return lost or stolen dogs to their rightful owners and hold neglectful owners accountable for their actions.

However it should also be pointed out that a microchip is only as useful as the information assigned to it on the national database. It’s important to keep your contact details up to date on the database if you move house or change telephone number.”

Dogs Trust Malta offers free neutering and microchipping for all dogs in Malta and Gozo whose owners receive benefits, as well as for all farm, factory and hunters’ dogs.

The charity also runs regular roadshows across the island, where for two weeks all dogs in the local area can receive free neutering vouchers, a health check and microchip.

www.dogstrustmalta.com.