LOST dogs could soon be a thing of the past in Stratford district.
New government rules mean all dogs must be microchipped by April 6 with owners who do not comply potentially facing fines of up to £500.
And ahead of the new laws coming into place, Stratford District Council has organised a series of microchipping events over the next few weeks.
The events will take place between 10.30am and 1.30pm on the following dates with the first 20 slots free and subsequent slots charged at £5 plus VAT per dog:
Tuesday February 2 – Stratford Police Station
Wednesday February 3 – Sheldon Bosley Hub, Shipston
Monday February 8 – Graham Adams Centre, Southam
Wednesday February 10 – Memorial Hall, Welford
Tuesday February 16 – Crawford Memorial Hall, Bidford
Wednesday February 17 – Methodist Church, Wellesbourne
Friday Februrary 19 – St Andrews Centre, Shottery
Tuesday February 23 – Jubilee Centre, Alcester
In addition to the microchipping, there will be information available about dog-fouling, nuisance barking and dog-walking etiquette, including worrying livestock.
The council’s rural crime coordinator Lucy Lambert will also be on hand to discuss her ‘Eyes and Paws’ campaign, which is designed to promote community safety and encourage dog-walkers to report any suspicious activity.
Government ministers hope the law change will help reunite owners with lost or stolen pets as well as relieving some of the burden on animal charities and local authorities.
Call 01789 267575 to make a booking.