DOG owners across the district are being urged to ensure their pets are microchipped.

Bradford Council says owners should also make sure the information is up to date.

The plea follows the first prosecution in the district under the Microchipping of Dogs (England ) Regulations, which came into force three years ago. Under the law, anyone who fails to have their dog – aged over eight weeks – microchipped faces a fine of up to £500.

In the district case, two of the defendant’s dogs had microchips containing incorrect details and a third had no chip. A £484 fine was imposed, with costs of £870.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, the council’s executive member for healthy people and places, said: “Dog owners need to be clear on the steps they have to take. Microchipping makes it easier and quicker to return dogs to their owners should they be lost or stolen and helps to keep dogs safe.”

More details can be found at rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/general/microchipping.