PET owners are being invited to get their cuddly companions chipped for charity in an initiative at Hart Vets in Bicester.

Dogs are being offered a free microchip over the coming weekends and in turn the vet centre in Browning Drive will be collecting money for two local animal charities.

The Chips for Charity event is being held to encourage more people to get their dogs microchipped ahead of the legislation change on Wednesday, April 6.

Partner at Hart Vets Ian Hart said: "Microchipping is a really useful way to get pets returned to their owners if they are lost or stray.

"We want to help people who maybe cannot afford to chip their dog to have a microchip implanted before the new law comes in to force.

"We would like to ask those able to do so to contribute generously to two fantastic local charities, Ardley Rescue Kennels and Oxford Animal Sanctuary, who do amazing work helping dogs in need."

The change in legislation will mean it will become a legal requirement that all dogs have a microchip.

Further free microchip sessions at Hart Vets will be by appointment and will take place on Sundays between Sunday, March 13, and Sunday April, 3.

Any money donated will be split between the two rescue charities.

To book contact 01869 323223 or microchip@hartvet.co.uk.