DOG owners are being urged to have pets microchipped.

Hartlepool Borough Council is working with the National Canine Defence League to run a series of dog micro-chipping sessions in the town.

The process involves inserting a microchip containing an identification number under the dog's skin. The number and owner's details are stored on a computer database.

If the dog is found wandering, the microchip is scanned to reveal the number which can then be matched to the owner's details.

The following microchipping sessions will be held: Tuesday, in the car park in front of Borough Hall on the Headland; next Wednesday, in the Asda car park, Marina Way and on Thursday next week outside the visitor at Summerhill, in Catcote Road. All the sessions run from 10am to 2pm.

Owners living in the borough council area can have their pets microchipped for £9.50 per animal. Dogs belonging to pensioners or people in receipt of benefits will be microchipped free. However, benefits books must be produced.

Puppies under six months will only be microchipped if they have had all innoculations.