Free Dog Micro-chipping this Saturday (11th October)

Further to my earlier post on dogs which mentioned BARK, please see below for details from the Council's Communications team of an event to formally launch Lewisham's version of the scheme:

Free dog micro-chipping : Saturday 11 October 2008

To mark the launch of BARK - Borough Action for Responsible K9’s – a free dog micro-chipping and information event is being held on Saturday 11 October.

BARK aims to encourage responsible dog ownership in the borough and is a joint project organised by Lewisham Council, the RSPCA and Battersea Cats and Dogs Home.

The numbers of stray dogs being reported continues to rise each year. One way of finding a lost four-legged friend more quickly and easily is to have it microchipped. Microchipping is a safe, permanent form of ID that can help to reunite owners with their dogs should they become lost or stolen.

The microchipping session is on Saturday, 11 October from 10.00am to 3.00pm at:

Wearside Service Centre
Wearside Road
Lewisham
SE13 7EZ

Pre-booking for micro-chipping is essential. It is not possible to safely accommodate large numbers of dogs and their owners in one space at the same time. Dog owners wanting to bring their dogs along must call 020 8314 2098 for an appointment.

The event is open to Lewisham residents only. Residents – or rather their dogs! – will also get a free engraved tag as well as the micro-chip.

Residents can bring as many dogs as they like but do need to make an appointment first. Residents are asked to bring proof of pet ownership wherever possible, such as a vet card or bill, or pedigree papers. Proof of living in the borough is also necessary, e.g. Council Tax statement or utility bill.

Staff will also be on hand to give information and advice about responsible dog ownership.

UPDATED on 7th October to insert the all-important word 'responsible' before dog ownership in the Council's press release - thanks to Zoe for pointing out that omission to me!