Keeping Devon's animals safe

The Blue Cross animal adoption centre in Torbay is to offer subsidised microchipping to pets in Devon to help reduce the number of lost cats and dogs who might not otherwise be safely reunited with their owners.

The microchipping service will take place on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at The Blue Cross centre in Torbay from 9 November 2005. A nurse from a local veterinary surgery will attend the centre to carry out the microchipping. Microchipping helps identify animals if they are lost, stray or stolen and can help reunite owners with their pets quickly and easily.

Centre manager, Laura Valentine said: “We have identified a need for low cost microchipping in the area. This service will be available to people on low incomes, such as state pensions and means tested benefits. If you are not sure if you qualify, please call us. Being able to identify animals that may be separated from their owners is vital, and we look forward to our first clients taking us up on the offer.”

Microchipping is a safe, easy way to register your pet’s identity. A rise in the number of pets straying or becoming lost every year means microchipping is an important way of proving who owns an animal. Owners must remember to update their details on the microchip if they move house.

Anyone who would like to find out more about the low cost microchipping service should visit The Blue Cross adoption centre on Ashley Priors Lane, Watcombe, Torquay TQ1 4SE, or call 01803 327 728.

Notes to editors
The Blue Cross is Britain's pet charity, providing practical support, information and advice for pet and horse owners. Through its network of animal adoption centres it rehomes thousands of animals each year. Its hospitals provide veterinary care for the pets of people who cannot afford private vets' fees.

Media contact:  Susan Crown
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