BOROUGH pet owners can get their cats and dogs microchipped for free during an animal action day in Netherton.

Dudley Council has joined forces with the RSPCA for the event on February 4, which promotes responsible pet ownership.

RSPCA staff will be at Netherton Park activity centre between 10am and 4pm to microchip pets and share general pet care advice such as the benefits of getting a collar and an identification tag.

Councillor Rachel Harris, cabinet member for health, said: "This partnership event is a great opportunity for pet owners to get some advice from fully trained staff on their doorstep.

“With the new legislation coming into force next April that all dogs will need to be microchipped, people can get their pets tagged now or take advice on just how easy it is to get done.

“Chipping is the easiest way to ensure that if a pet is lost it can quickly be reunited with its owner.”

People are asked to take dogs along on their lead and to carry cats in securely closed carriers.

For more information call 01384 814664 or 01384 812734.