AN ANIMAL charity in Basingstoke will offer free microchipping for cats ahead of new laws coming into force in June.
RSPCA Basingstoke and Andover is offering the service for free to people on benefits or low incomes at the Ridgeway Centre in Buckskin, on May 11, from 12pm until 4pm.
The charity is offering the service before a new law comes into force this year making microchipping cats compulsory to make it easier for lost or stray cats to be reunited with their owners.
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Under the new legislation, which was announced on March 15, owners have until June 10 to ensure their pet is microchipped, or they may be fined.
To receive the free service, cat owners must bring their animal, as well as proof of benefits or income status, to the centre. The charity says that anyone who is not eligible can still have their pet microchipped for £10.
Sarah Biro, who has been volunteering at the RSPCA for 16 years, said the charity can offer the service thanks to money received from a grant.
She added: "It promotes good animal ownership, and in turn, helps us to get people's animals back to them if they become lost, or strays.
"It wouldn't be possible for us to run this service without the help of Jose the vet, and Emma and Meg; the nurses, from Companion Care Basingstoke who will administer the microchips."
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