Dog licenses to be replaced by microchips

Dog owners will have to microchip their four-legged friends in future - or face a £500 fine.

New laws started their journey through the House of Keys last week when Environment, Food and Agriculture Minister Geoffrey Boot steered the Dogs (Amendment) Bill through its first reading.

The legislation will mean an end to the current system of dog licenses - they will be replaced by microchips.

Police and officials will be given powers to seize dogs running loose and owners will be charged £50 to claim their stray.