Raise awareness of microchipping to deter abandonment of dogs

There is an increase in stray dogs on the streets of London, largely due to purposeful abandonment.  Statistics show that the number of stray dogs found that are not microchipped has increased from 23% in 2021 to 30% 2023. 

Today, the London Assembly has asked the Mayor to work with the Metropolitan Police, third sector organisations and other stakeholders to spread awareness that not microchipping your dog is a criminal offence, promote awareness of the benefits of microchipping and promote the free options to microchip dogs.

Leonie Cooper AM, who proposed the motion, said:

“Too many dogs are being found stray on London's streets, many of them not microchipped, leaving them unidentifiable.

“That's why the London Assembly is calling for urgent action by raising awareness of the need to microchip dogs and the available free microchipping options.”

The full text of the motion is:

This Assembly notes that there is an increase in stray dogs on the streets of London, largely due to purposeful abandonment. The reason for the rise is multi-faceted but the cost of living crisis and impact of the covid pandemic are key factors. 

Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) can be useful tool for Local Authorities to tackle strays and anti-social behaviour with dogs. The current measures used include a high number of dog exclusion areas, dog on lead areas and a limit on the number of dogs which can be walked at once. 

This Assembly believes that Local Authorities should use PSPOs proportionately and not deliver restrictive policies which pose serious risks to both canine welfare and public safety. There is also a risk that different regulations across London’s boroughs make it difficult for dog owners to know what rules are in place. 

This Assembly further notes that, as well as being a legal requirement, microchipping can play a role in deterring the abandoning of dogs. Statistics show that the number of stray dogs found that are not microchipped has increased from 23% in 2021 to 30% 2023. 

Misinformation and cost can prevent people microchipping their dogs. However, microchipping costs range from £10-£30 and is even offered for free by some organisations in London. 

The Assembly calls on the Chair to: 

1. Write to London Boroughs encouraging them to review their PSPO policies in respect to dogs, and ensure their policies are proportionate and consistent.
2. Write to the Mayor encouraging him to work with the Metropolitan Police, third sector organisations and other stakeholders to spread awareness amongst Londoners that not microchipping your dog is a criminal offence, promote awareness of the benefits of microchipping and promote the free options to microchip dogs.

The meeting can be viewed via webcast or YouTube.

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