Dog owners in Carlisle are being helped to stay on the right side of the law thanks to Riverside and Carlisle City Council.

The partners have joined forces to offer a series of free micro-chipping sessions across Carlisle which have been a huge success, with owners lining up to get their pooches registered.

The free service follows a new law which came in to force in April last year for dogs to be micro-chipped before they reach eight-months-old.

Owners’ contact details are logged and they are then assured that their pet will be returned to them should it get lost or stolen.

A fine of up to £500 could be issued if your dog isn’t registered.

Stella Eggleston, Riverside’s Neighbourhood Planner, who organised the events, said: “There has been a great response with around 50 dogs micro-chipped so far. Dog owners have also had the chance to get advice about being responsible for their pet and making sure they clean up after them. We organised the events in partnership with the council as we had received feedback from our customers about dog fouling in Carlisle.”