16 March 2006

Microchipping exemption is barking mad

The NZ Kennel Club is concerned that farmers have leant on the government to exempt farm dogs from mandatory microchipping. That is due to be required for all newly registered puppies and dogs from 1 July.

“We agree with Federated Farmers that there should be one rule for all,” said Greg Kerr, chief executive of the NZ Kennel Club.

“If there is to be a legal requirement for newly registered pups to be microchipped, that should apply to all dogs. No exemptions.

“There are already enough rorts going on with registrations. Dogs are being registered with Councils as ‘farm dogs’ at a cheaper rate. Sure, the owner’s parents or friend may be allowing their farm to be used for registration but the reality is that some ‘farm dogs’ would be lucky to see a paddock twice a year.

“And it is simply not accurate to say farm dogs do not cause problems. Bites do happen as farms as well as in the city.

“Farmers would have done better to look to market forces and competition to supply the answer. Anyone can insert a microchip. Yes, most people will choose to have their puppy microchipped by a vet.

“The feedback we are getting is that many vets are choosing to offer a competitively-priced package of immunisation, health check, and microchipping where the chip costs only an additional $25 to $30.”

“The proposal is bad policy and will lead to unworkable law,” said Greg Kerr.

ENDS

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