Protect your pet - get your dog microchipped.

West Wiltshire District Council has launched a dog microchipping campaign to try and reduce the number of strays collected in the area.

An average of 160 strays are retrieved by the dog warden every year - these are pets that have no means of identification and are found to be wandering the streets. It is a legal requirement for pet dogs to wear a collar and tag with their owner's name and address on it, but real peace of mind is given by microchipping. No bigger than a grain of rice,a microchip ensures that your contact details are held on a national database accessible by most vets, rescue homes and dog wardens.

The Council's Dog Warden now offers this service for just £18 per dog.

All you need to do is phone 01225 776655 to arrange an appointment. Home visits can normally be arranged at no further cost.