Let’s get the important news over with first. Gnasher has now been microchipped.

For those who need reminding, since 1968 Gnasher has been the pet dog of Dennis the Menace in the Beano comic. In the latest issue, after getting his enemy, poodle Foo Foo, into trouble, Gnasher is microchipped free by Dogs Trust.

By 2016, it will be compulsory in England to have your dog microchipped so if you would like your dog to join Gnasher and be chipped free by Dogs Trust, call 0330 123 0334 or visit www.chipmydog.org.uk for your nearest participating vet.

In the news today a chihuahua called Tommy has been reunited with his owners in Hayes some three years after he went missing, thanks to an identity microchip.

Unfortunately, Shireen had no chip when she was found as a stray in Scotland. This delightful Staffie has been in the care of Dogs Trust at Harefield since August. At present she is spending much of her time with Sian, the Supporter Relations Officer including, sometimes, going home with her at night. Don’t tell anyone, but Sian says, this soft Staffie threw herself under a cushion when she first met Sian’s house rabbit. Shireen knows some commands and can be left for a few hours a day. If you can offer this beautiful girl a home, call 01895 453930 or see her at Harvil Road, Harefield UB9 6JW.

If you would like advice on pet insurance, the National Animal Welfare Trust (NAWT) is hosting another of their excellent free webinars. This is a great opportunity to ask any questions you have about pet insurance including about insuring rescue pets. The panellists are NAWT Chief Executive, Clare Williams and guests from Petplan – NAWT’s insurance partners. The webinar is on Monday December 1 (7-8pm). It’s easy to register, just go to www.nawt.org.uk. More details from s.kaufman@nawt.org.uk.

Santa will be visiting the NAWT Christmas Fayre on November 30 (11.30am-2.30pm). As well as stalls and Santa’s Grotto, you can also meet the animals needing homes. NAWT is at Tyler’s Way, Watford-by-Pass WD25 8WT.

Read more of Marion's animal welfare columns .