Free dog micro-chipping in Epworth

North Lincolnshire Council is working with the Dogs Trust to provide free dog micro-chipping dates throughout North Lincolnshire, and as part of this, the next session is on Thursday, July 24 from 11am to 3pm, at the pay and display car park, Church Street, Epworth.

From April 6 2016 it will become compulsory for all dogs to be micro-chipped and will cost you £20 to £30 to get it done privately. Take advantage of this free scheme before the law swings in to action.

The micro-chipping scheme is a successful way of reuniting owners with lost or stolen pets. It should also help relieve the pressure on animal charities, rehoming centres and local councils, and protect the welfare of dogs by promoting responsible dog ownership.

It is also required by law that your dog should have a collar and ID tag inscribed with your name and number. Therefore anyone who finds the dog can read the tag and return it to its owner.

The Dogs Trust has donated the microchips and will ensure that all dogs at each session are tended to.

Free sessions are organised throughout the year in North Lincolnshire.

Coun Nigel Sherwood, cabinet member for Highways and Neighbourhood, said: “As North Lincolnshire Council’s dog warden service has been rated one of the best in the country, Dogs Trust is showing their support through this free micro-chipping scheme. It’s so important that you do get down to one of these free sessions as soon as you can because April 2016 will soon be before us.

“Not only will it save you money, it enables your pet to be traced back to you if it should ever be lost or stolen, which saves a lot of heartache in the long run.

“All you need to do is turn up to one of the sessions; there is no need to book. A ticket system will be in place, so that everyone who has a ticket will get their dog micro-chipped. It’s such a fantastic opportunity so take complete advantage of it.”