Liz Smith, Scottish Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has called residents to make their views known to the consultation on responsible dog ownership. The UK Conservative Government have already change the law in England to introduce compulsory microchipping of dogs in England and Wales. The Animal Welfare Act will be amended to reflect the change to compulsory micro chipping by April 2016. Liz Smith, Scottish Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fifesaid: “Recent dog attacks have demonstrated the need for action to be taken to promote responsible dog ownership and address the illegal breeding of dogs. “I am pleased that following pressure from Scottish Conservatives the Scottish Government has agreed to undertake a consultation on measures to promote responsible dog ownership. “This consultation will include the possible introduction of compulsory microchipping for dogs in Scotland and other measures to encourage responsible dog ownership with the aim of improving the safety of the public from dangerous and out of control dogs. The consultation will run until the end of March 2014. “More recently, following a number of dog attacks the Scottish Government also agreed to host a summit which will be held in March on the specific issue of dangerous dogs. This will bring together Government, local authorities, COSLA, Police Scotland, prosecutors, victim groups and other key interests to discuss preventative measures aimed at improving public safety and preventing dog attacks from happening. “I would encourage you to make your view know by inputting into the consultation. Further information can be found on the Scottish Government website: www.scotland.gov.uk or by emailing:MicrochippingofDogs@scotland.gsi.gov.uk”