DOG owners are being made aware of new laws enforcing compulsory microchipping of pets.

On April 6, this year, all dogs more than eight weeks old will have to have a microchip implanted in them and they will have to be registered on an approved database, containing the current name, address and contact details of the owner.

Any owners of dogs which have not been microchipped and registered may be served with a notice requiring them to do so within 21 days. Failure to comply with the notice will render the owner liable to pay a £500 fine.

Scarborough Borough Council wants to raise awareness of this and is working in partnership with Dogs Trust, which is running a series of events throughout the borough, providing free microchipping for all dogs.

This will also include a free basic health check by a veterinary nurse and a free pack promoting responsible dog ownership.

The free microchipping events, which will run from 11am until 3pm, will take place on:

• Tuesday, February 23 - Evron Centre, John Street, Filey;

• Tuesday, March 22 - The Hub, Northway, Scarborough (in partnership with Yorkshire Coast Homes);

• Tuesday, April 19- Whitby Leisure Centre, West Cliff, Whitby (in partnership with Everyone Active).

Dog owners are advised to arrive as early as possible, as the events are expected to be very popular.