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Dog owners take advantage of free identity microchipping

May 21, 2008

Around 90 residents got their dogs microchipped for free during a weekend of events that took place in parks last month.

Newham Council's animal welfare team, in conjunction with the parks constabulary and anti-social behaviour police team, have set more dates for any dog owners who missed out.

The sessions will be held on the following Saturdays:

June 14
11am to 1pm at Brampton Park, Masterman Road, East Ham
2pm to 5pm at Central Park, High Street South, East Ham

July 26
11am to 1pm at Barking Road Recreation Ground, East Ham
2pm to 5pm at Plashet Park, Plashet Grove, Forest Gate

August 30
11am to 1pm at Little Ilford Park, Church Road, Manor Park
2pm to 5pm at Plashet Park, Plashet Grove, Forest Gate

Councillor Andrew Baikie, executive member for public protection, said: "Microchipping helps owners be reunited with their dogs, should they go missing. It also makes it easier to settle legal ownership of dogs in the event of a dispute.

"We are one of very few boroughs that offer this free service. I encourage dog owners to take up this offer.

"The animal welfare team has a wealth of knowledge and experience and will also be available to provide advice and guidance to pet owners."

Mrs Elaine Palmer from East Ham had her two bull mastiffs, Ronnie and Reggie, microchipped in Central Park, East Ham. She said: "I didn't realise the council offered this service. I decided to get my dogs chipped in case I lost them or if they were stolen. It helps in claiming ownership and unlike a collar, it's permanent. I would definitely recommend it to other dog owners."

Since April, the council's animal welfare service took sole responsibility for stray dogs from the police. During the microchipping weekend, the team picked up a stray dog and returned it to its owner. They also stopped a dog fight that was taking place in Russell Road, Custom House.

By law, owners must not allow their dogs to stray and must ensure their dog wears a collar and identity tag. It is also an offence to let the dog be out of control in a public place and allow it to be a nuisance to other people. If the dog attacks a person, the owner is liable for prosecution.

The animal welfare service can provide advice to dog owners on matters such as training, chewing and socialisation. As well as microchipping, the team also provides a tattooing service for £20, which is available by appointment.

To contact the animal welfare service, telephone 020 8586 9739.

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