Dog owners are being urged to attend a free microchipping session in March.

Hounslow council has teamed up Dogs Trust, to offer the borough’s four-legged friends freebies including being microchipped, tag engraving and a safety around dogs information session.

Dog handlers will also be on hand to answer any questions regarding dog behaviour.

A session is being held on Tuesday March 29 at the Recreation Ground, Bear Road, Hanworth, between 11am and 3pm.

Time is running out before the new law is introduced on Wednesday April 6, for all dog owners to legally have their pets microchipped.

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Once microchipped the information is stored on a database and can be used to ensure lost or missing dogs are reunited with their owners and returned home as soon as possible after being found.

After April 6, if a dog has not been microchipped, owners are given 21 more days.

After that time owners will face a fine of £500 and a criminal conviction.

Councillor Richard Foote, cabinet member for community protection at Hounslow Council said: “There is not long to go now until it becomes law to have your dog microchipped.

“The consequences of not having your dog microchipped is a large fine and a criminal conviction.

“We are making sure that all dog owners have the chance to get this done by providing these free sessions.

I am told that these have proved very popular already but for those who have not yet got around to it, we urge them to get along to a session.

“Our dogs are a part of the family and microchipping is the best way to keep them safe.”

For more information on Hounslow microchipping events click here or email animalwarden@hounslow.gov.uk