DOG owners are being urged to ensure their prize pooches are microchipped.

Dogs Trust Evesham is supporting National Microchipping Month and offering the service – usually £10 – for free from June 13-19 as part of the campaign.

The charity is also calling on animal lovers to update any personal details on their pet’s chip which may have recently changed.

The tiny devices, no bigger than a grain of rice, are implanted under a dog’s skin and record important details such as owner’s contact numbers and address.

Each is coded with a unique number which is stored on a national database, allowing pets to be reunited with their owners wherever they are found in the country. But the system only works if owners keep their details up to date.

Chris Slight, manager of Dogs Trust Evesham, said: “National Microchipping Month is vital in raising awareness among owners of the importance of getting their dogs microchipped. To support the event, from June 13-19, local dog owners can get their canine companions chipped for free at the rehoming centre.”

Anyone interested should call 01386 830 613 to make an appointment.