DOG owners across Wirral are being urged to ensure their pets’ microchip details are up-to-date.

Ahead of Check the Chip Day on Thursday (August 15), Dogs Trust Merseyside has re-iterated its message about the importance of keeping microchip information current.

Since 2016 it has been a legal requirement for all dogs to be microchipped, with the chip linked to the owner’s current contact details. Dogs must also wear a collar and tag displaying the owner’s name and address when in public, even if they are microchipped.

Data from the latest Dogs Trust Stray Dog Survey revealed that, nationally, approximately 35,078 stray dogs were handled by local authority dog wardens last year, which is described by the truts as 'a worrying increase on figures from previous years'.

Around 43% of these stray dogs were eventually reunited with their owners, sometimes after spending time in local authority kennels.

However, local authorities reported over a quarter (26%) of dogs could not be reunited with their owners due to their microchips containing incorrect or outdated information. 

According to the the rehoming charity, more than a third (35%) of all stray dogs handled by local authorities last year were passed on to welfare organisations such as Dogs Trust to be rehomed.

This includes friendly, fun-loving five-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Rolo, who loves nothing more than spending time in the office with team members at Dogs Trust Merseyside.

Georgina Lowery, rehoming centre manager at Dogs Trust Merseyside, said: "Being able to access accurate microchip information is crucial when it comes to reuniting lost dogs with their owners.

"Each year, thousands of dogs go missing, causing distress for both pets and their owners.

"By ensuring your contact details are up to date, you significantly increase the chances of a speedy reunion with your canine companion.

"It’s a simple yet effective step every dog owner can take to protect their beloved pets. We urge all dog owners to take a moment to check and update their contact details on their microchip database this Check the Chip Day.

"It can make all the difference when ensuring a happy outcome for both lost dogs and their families." 

For information on how to check and update your dog’s microchip information, visit the Dogs Trust website: www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/health-wellbeing/essentials/microchipping

For more information on Rolo, go to www.dogstrust.org.uk/merseyside