DOG owners who have not had their pet microchipped yet are being urged to do so by Worcester City Council.
The drop-in events will be taking place from 11.30am until 1.30pm on Thursday July 2 at Perdiswell Park near the leisure centre and Wednesday July 15 at Diglis Playing Field by the carpark.
The two sessions mark the final opportunity for residents to get their dogs microchipped for free. Funding for the microchips and veterinary nurse’s time was provided by South Worcestershire Community Safety Partnership.
Worcestershire Regulatory Services has strengthened its approach to enforcing the legal requirement for dogs to be microchipped. WRS provides the Dog Warden service on behalf of the six district councils in Worcestershire.
In the last year, the WRS Dog Warden team found that 41 per cent of stray dogs seized were not microchipped across Wychavon, Malvern Hills, and Worcester.
In public spaces, dogs must also wear an ID and collar which displays the owner’s name and address.
Dog owners whose pets are microchipped are also welcome to attend the drop-in sessions to check their details are up to date.
Pip Griffin, WRS senior dog warden said: “By acting responsibly and getting your pet microchipped, it allows us to reunite your beloved four-legged friend to your home quickly and safely.
“I strongly encourage residents to get their dog microchipped for free to avoid the alternative of a significant charge when collecting your dog from our kennels.”
Coun Karen Holmes, vice chair of Worcester City Council’s licensing committee, added: “Microchipping is one of the simplest and most effective ways to ensure lost dogs can be quickly reunited with their owners.
“Events like this help make it easy and accessible for everyone to have their dog microchipped and comply with legislation.
“I would encourage all dog owners to come along, meet the team, and make the most of this free service if their pet is not yet microchipped.”
Visit www.worcsregservices.gov.uk/all-services/dog-service/microchipping-events/ for more details.
