Blue Cross Launches Free Microchipping Clinic

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Available to all local owners of cats, dogs and rabbits

Hammersmith's Blue Cross animal hospital has launched a regular weekly clinic offering free microchipping for all cats, dogs and rabbits.

Pet owners can book appointments in advance at the pet charity’s Wednesday afternoon microchip clinic at the hospital in Argyle Place, King Street.

The leading pet charity is encouraging owners to bring
their pets along for microchipping, not only to comply
with the new law that came into force in April making microchips compulsory for all dogs, but also to ensure that all their pets are easily identifiable in case they get lost or are stolen.

The free offer is available both to Blue Cross clients and all other local pet owners.

Nadine Lock, Chief Veterinary Surgeon at the Blue Cross Hammersmith hospital, says: " As well as now being a legal requirement for dogs, microchipping is really important for all pets to make sure you have the best possible chance of being reunited with your pet if it is lost or stolen.

" Our rehoming centres see many cats and dogs in good health and really friendly towards people, who could be pets being missed by devastated families. Without a microchip it is sadly impossible for us to trace their owners and get them home."

A third of all dogs – over 2,000 - brought to Blue Cross in 2015 were admitted as 'strays' , either from dog pounds or found wandering the streets. Because they weren't microchipped the leading rehoming charity fears they will never know how many are missed by families.

From 6 April this year, it became a legal requirement for all dogs to be chipped and owners may face a fine if they do not comply.

Nadine says: “Not only is microchipping your pet vital, it is also important to keep your contact details up to date with your database provider. It doesn’t happen automatically, so if you move home or change your phone number make sure they always have your latest details.”

To book an appointment for their dog, cat or rabbit, pet owners can call Blue Cross Hammersmith on 0300 777 1800.

For more information about Blue Cross, free microchipping for your pet or to make a donation visit the Blue Cross.

You can also follow the news from Blue Cross Hammersmith on its Facebook page.

May 13, 2016