Definizione e validazione della popolazione canina in Umbria: identificazione dei parametri per una corretta stima

The identification and registration of dogs in the dog registry has been obliged and introduced by the Framework Law 281/1991. Since 1th January 2005, the application of the tattoo has been replaced by the implantation of a microchip and since 3th July 2012 the microchip has become the only identification method legally recognized for puppies in UE. In Umbria region, the Veterinary and Food Information System (SIVA) is the database that can be used by public and freelance veterinaries for the updating of dog regional registry. However, data added in the dog regional registry are not always representative, although dog owners must register their dogs and report their death. The aim of this study is to estimate the size of the dog population in Umbria region, checking the presence of potential sources of bias able to modify the real number of dogs, in order to validate data gathered in regional registry