Dog owners only have until April 6 to get their pets microchipped or they could face a fine of up to £500.

But the good news is that chipping won’t cost you a penny and could help reunite you with your dog if it ever goes missing. The chips can also help keep your best friend safe and sound by deterring dog thieves.

While collars and tags can easily fall off, the tiny microchips offer a more permanent means of identifying dogs.

A tiny chip about the size of a grain of rice is inserted underneath loose skin at the back of the animal’s neck.

Each chip contains a unique code that can be scanned and matched with your details on the national database.

For this reason, it’s essential that whoever does the chipping registers the details properly. Also, don’t forget to update your address, phone number and email address if they change.

By law, all dogs must still wear a collar and tag displaying their owner’s name, address and phone number.

The Dogs Trust is offering free a microchipping service by appointment only at its centre at Hill House Farm, Sadberge, Co Durham DL2 1SL. Call 01325 333 114 for details.

Stockton Council is also offering a free microchipping service at 16 Church Road, Stockton TS181TX. Call 01642 526575 to check the details.

For details of free microchipping centres and events in other parts of the country, visit www.chipmydog.org.uk.