Dog owners in Ipswich are being urged to get their pets microchipped before the new law takes effect next month – or risk facing a £500 fine.

From April 6, all dogs and puppies aged eight weeks and over must be chipped under new Microchipping of Dogs (England) regulations.

The details will be kept on a database to help identify the owners of stray dogs.

Those who do not get their dogs chipped could face a fine of up to £500.

An Ipswich Borough Council spokesman said: “Stray dogs that are picked up and have a microchip can be returned where possible more promptly to their families.

“When a dog that does not have a microchip is found, it will be taken to kennels, to be reclaimed or rehomed.

“When the owners collect their dog they will be asked to ensure that the dog is microchipped and not run the risk of facing prosecution and a fine of up to £500.”

The spokesman added that the council would be writing to anyone with a dog found not to have been chipped.

An estimated 102,000 stray are dogs are understood to be picked up each year, with the new regulations having been put in place to help ease the burden on dog kennels, animal charities and local authorities.

Animal Welfare Minister George Eustice said: “Microchipping is vital for good dog welfare and a simple solution for responsible pet owners to provide peace of mind and ensure your much-loved dog can be traced.

“Microchipping our dogs will not only reunite people with their lost or stolen pets, but also help to tackle the growing problem of strays roaming the streets and relieve the burden placed on animal charities and local authorities.”

Ipswich Borough Council is reminding dog owners that it is a legal requirement for dogs to wear a collar and tag with the owner’s name and address when they are in public.

To get your pet chipped, contact your local vet. For more information on the new regulations, visit www.legislation.gov.uk.