Legislation that paves the way for the compulsory micro-chipping of dogs, instead of the current licensing system, has finished its passage through the branches of Tynwald.

Last week, the House of Keys approved technical alterations to the Dogs (Amendment) Bill, which were introduced by the Legislative Council.

It means the bill is ready to be made into law.

One of the key components of the bill is the introduction of compulsory micro-chipping of dogs, to replace the dog licence.

Micro-chipping is recognised by animal welfare agencies, including the ManxSPCA, as being the best way to identify a pet and its owner.

Once the regime changes, owners will no longer have to pay an annual fee.

Instead they will make a one-off payment for the micro-chipping.

Under the scheme proposed by the bill, dogs would be micro-chipped, and their information linked to a database.

Readers for the microchips would be held with dog wardens, vets, the police and ManxSPCA.