The number of dog registrations in the Virgin Islands has risen by approximately 29 per cent this year, as compared to previous years. Chief Agricultural Officer, in the Department of Agriculture, Mr. Bevin Braithwaite confirmed the compliance statistics, and explained that the department is responsible for livestock, as well as dogs, and that it is important that owners adhere to proper ownership procedures.

Mr. Braithwaite said, “I am so pleased to see this growth in registration and to note that there are so many dog owners, who have taken the time and effort to register and licence their pet dogs.”

In outlining the benefits of registration, Mr. Braithwaite added, “It provides accountability for owners, andit may help you to know where your animals are and where they have been. It would help us at the department to make sure that your animals are away from areas where they could be hurt or hurt or endanger other animals and/or property.”

Head of the Veterinary Division, Dr. Michael Montrose said that the department is still expecting to register more dogs, even after the significant increase stating, “In 2014 we registered 107 dogs, and in 2015, we registered 198, and now, so far in 2016, we have registered 255. The momentum has built up and even now after we have ordered additional tags, we are looking to order more before the year ends.”

He added, “We are truly grateful to individuals who have seen it fit to come forward and overall, we really want to appeal to persons to keep their dogs under control at all times. Continue to leash and fence-in your pet dogs so that we can help to keep persons safe, save the lives of many animals, and preserveGovernment resources.”

The Department of Agriculture strives to provide and manage cost effective resources and services to support the agricultural producers, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders involved in the developmental process of the agricultural sector.

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Photo Caption:

Leashed dog and owner at the Veterinary Division, Department of Agriculture, Paraquita Bay, Tortola (Photo Credit:GIS/ Ronnielle Frazer)