MICROCHIPPING

'Microchipping' involves having an identification tag inserted painlessly into your dog, making the job of returning pets to their owners much easier should they stray or get lost.

From March 2012 onwards, when you apply to renew your dog licence, you must also show that your dog has been microchipped. You can, however, have your dog microchipped for free as a result of a partnership between Ards Borough Council, the Dogs Trust and local vets who are providing free microchipping.

Simply contact one of the vets below and make an appointment to have your dog microchipped for free:

Balloo Vets, Killinchy Tel: 028 9754 2111

Claire Ferris Veterinary Clinic, Millisle Tel: 028 9186 2777

Peninsula Veterinary Clinic, Donaghadee Tel: 028 9188 2004

Peninsula Veterinary Clinic, Kircubbin Tel: 028 4273 8346

Comber Veterinary Clinic, Comber Tel: 028 9187 0899

The Council and the Dogs Trust will also be holding a series of 8 roadshows in the coming months where you can also bring your dog along and have it microchipped for free.

30 August Londonderry Park, Newtownards 10.00am - 3.30pm
31 August Parkway, Comber 10.00am - 3.30pm
1 September Exploris Car Park, Portaferry 10.00am - 3.30pm
2 September The Commons, Donaghadee 10.00am - 3.30pm
7 November Londonderry Park, Newtownards 10.00am - 3.30pm
8 November Parkway, Comber 10.00am - 3.30pm
9 November Exploris Car Park, Portaferry 10.00am - 3.30pm
10 November The Commons, Donaghadee 10.00am - 3.30pm

These dates and times are provisional. Please confirm with us prior to the event.

If you would like any further information about microchipping or about any dog control issue, please contact the Borough Inspector's Office, Ards Borough Council, Tel: 028 9182 4005, E: ards@ards-council.gov.uk