The Dogs Trust Stray Dogs annual survey report has been published to reveal the latest statistics for stray dogs in the UK, between April 2017-March 2018.

A total of 56,043 stray dogs were collected by local authorities (decreasing for the 7th consecutive year), and of those 57% were reunited with their owners. Only 35% of stray dogs collected were microchipped. 

Locally in the East Cambridgeshire district, we collected a total of 90 stray dogs within that time period - 54% were reunited with their owner and 42% sent to rehome. 

Only 52% of the dogs picked up were microchipped, and of those, 51% were unregistered or had incorrect details. It is vital that microchips are kept up to date to ensure that stray dogs can be reunited with their owners. 

Microchipping 

Microchipping is compulsory. The Microchipping of Dogs (England) Regulations 2015 state that as of April 2016 all dogs and puppies over the age of 8 weeks must be microchipped and contact details stored on a national database. The contact details must be kept up to date. Failure to do so could result in a £500 fine. 

Dog Registration Scheme

All dogs are required by law to wear a collar and an identification tag showing the name and address of the owner. It is also a good idea to add a contact telephone number as well, to help reunite dog and owner even faster. 

The Council's own dog registration scheme has been set up to promote the principles of responsible dog ownership.  Registering your dog with the Council is one of the best ways to help ensure that you are reunited with your dog as soon as possible should it stray.  Registration costs £2.00 per dog and each dog will receive a tag with a unique ID number engraved on it, along with the council’s telephone number.

For more information about micro chipping or the Councils own Dog Registration scheme please contact the Dog Warden on Ely (01353) 665555 or email  East Cambridgeshire District Council Customer Services team.

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