MP backs Dogs Trust Microchip Appeal

A trip to Dogs Trust Ballymena rehoming centre has prompted North Antrim MP Ian Paisley jnr to urge all dog owners to ensure their pets are microchipped by taking advantage of the charity’s free chipping offer.
By The Newsroom
Published 11th Oct 2012, 13:51 BST

Mr Paisley was greeted at the Teeshan Centre by a number of VIPs (very important pooches) and it was clear for all to see that there was a connection with little Sheriff, a Collie cross puppy.

Ronnie Milsop, Dogs Trust Campaigns Manager for Northern Ireland, said: “We were delighted to welcome Ian Paisley JR to Dogs Trust Ballymena, the dogs were all on their best behaviour and had extra waggy tails to make him feel welcome.

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“We’re now six months into the change in legislation in Northern Ireland making it compulsory for all dogs to be microchipped. Since its introduction Dogs Trust has continued to hand out free microchips and has seen a steady demand.

“This free offer will continue until the end of the year and it is hoped that soon each and every dog in Northern Ireland will be microchipped.”

Speaking after his tour of the premises, Mr Paisley said: “I was delighted to revisit Dogs Trust Ballymena and, whilst the centre is always full of dogs in need, the work of the Charity is second to none and during my visit I saw several dogs head off to their new homes to start their new lives.

“Ronnie and his team have been working tirelessly to offer free microchips to dog owners across Northern Ireland and I would advise those in North Antrim to take advantage of the offer before it finishes at the end of the year.”

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Earlier this year it became compulsory for each and every dog to be microchipped and this change in the law represented a significant step forward for dog welfare and responsible dog ownership.

To show its support for change in legislation Dogs Trust is continuing to offer free microchips to every Local Authority in Northern Ireland until the end of the year.

Just contact Dogs Trust Ballymena on 0845 606 3036 to find out how you can get your free microchip.

Dogs Trust is the UK’s largest dog welfare charity and cares for over 16,000 abandoned and unwanted dogs a year. For more information about Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, visit www.dogstrust.org.uk

Related topics:Dogs Trust BallymenaNorthern Ireland