Dogs microchipped at event in Royston

Over 40 dogs were microchipped for free at an event in Royston last week.

The microchipping took place at the Corn Exchange on Thursday, and was organised by the Royston Safer Neighbourhood policing team and national charity the Dogs Trust. The chips contain information about the dog which can be used to identify it if it is lost or stolen.

Microchipping will soon be compulsory for all dog owners in England in April 2016 following a recent announcement made by the Government.

Police Community Support Officer Penny Tomsett, said: “The Dogs Trust and I were delighted with the number of people who attended the event as microchipping your dog is so important, especially with the change in legislation being just around the corner.

“This event saw the police working effectively with the Dogs Trust and we will be looking into the possibility of holding similar future events.”

Attendees had the opportunity to sign up to Dog Watch, a scheme that invites dogs and their owners to be the eyes and ears of their community, reporting suspicious activity back to the authorities. As part of Dog Watch owners receive information about crimes occurring in their local areas and are encouraged to report suspicious behaviour to police. Dog walkers can not only help cut crime but can deter offenders.

More information on the benefits of microchipping can be found at www.chipmydog.org.uk