The event was organised by Gwynedd Council and the RSPCA and was aimed at promoting responsible animal ownership.
The event included:
- Free microchipping for dogs, cats and rabbits
- Free dog tags and registration
- Free advice and assistance on responsible pet ownership
A total of 50 animals, both dogs and cats, were microchipped on the day. Making sure that your pet is properly chipped and tagged is essential – should your dog, cat or rabbit get loose or go missing it could help in bringing them home to you.
Since April 2008, responsibility for stray dogs has been transferred from the police to local councils. The action day goes hand in hand with Gwynedd Council’s Companion Animal Welfare Enhancement Scheme, which is funded by the Welsh Assembly Government.
Gwynedd Council were working in partnership with the West Gwynedd branch of the RSPCA on this scheme. The charity donated 250 microchips to the event, and more than £50 was raised for their coffers on the day.
Alaw Vaughan Jones, Gwynedd Council’s Animal Welfare Officer, said: “The day was a great success with many people dropping by for information. Gwynedd Council staff also spoke to many dog owners on nearby streets in Porthmadog on the day, reminding them of the importance of registering their pets and responsible dog ownership.
“We hope to hold a similar event in the Arfon area in the future.”
Councillor John R Jones, Gwynedd Council’s Senior Resources Portfolio Leader, added: “Losing your beloved pet can be an upsetting and stressful experience. Microchipping and registering an animal offers the hope of speeding up the process of getting the animal home.
“The scheme can also mean that a dog will not have to be taken to kennels – which can be confusing and distressing for the animal and expensive for the owner as they have to pay a release fee as well as a fee for every day spent there.”
For further information telephone (01766) 771000 or go to the Gwynedd Council website: www.gwynedd.gov.uk
