The article Foundations Laid For Animal Welfare Centre (November 13) was very welcome news for all animal lovers. However, it is surprising that there was no reference to the electronic identification system by microchip although I am sure the operators of the new animal welfare centre at Ta' Qali fully intend to include microchip identification as routine. The system has been available in Malta for at least eight years; it is simple, inexpensive and permanent and available from any veterinary clinic.

A considerable amount of publicity was given to microchipping some years ago, (e.g. The Times, May 16 and 18, 2001 among others) with recommendations by the authorities and animal welfare NGOs, that pet owners should have their pets protected in this way. Once the system is established, even if only on a voluntary basis, it can also serve to trace owners of stray animals.

The Times can do a great deal to help the cause of animal welfare by continuing to encourage the use of the microchip identification system.

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