New York bill would require microchipping of all dogs

Albany, N.Y.

-- All dogs in New York may have to be microchipped and identified in a state registry if a new bill makes it out of committee.

The legislation was referred to the state agriculture committee Jan. 7, and would require all dogs older than 4 months, excluding those kept temporarily, to be microchipped. A state registry also would be created that would maintain identification, medical records and owner contact information. The registry would be available to veterinarians, shelters and kennels.

"Microchipping is a relatively inexpensive and harmless procedure that would provide a safety net for dog owners in case of loss or theft," the bill states.

It originally was proposed and sent to the agriculture committee in January 2008, but no action was taken. The next hearing date has not been set.