FORGET giving the dog a bone, try a groundbreaking microchip instead!

On April 14, owners will be able to get their canine pets micro-tagged at Earlestown Market from 10am to 4pm.

St Helens Council has teamed up with the Dogs Trust and the RSPCA to subsidise the initiative, which aims to keep dogs safe.

Every year, more than 400 stray dogs are rescued across the borough and many cannot return home because the owner cannot be traced.

The chip, about the size of a grain of rice, is quickly implanted and carries a unique number that is recorded on a national database.

The service will cost £9.50 but is free of charge for those on benefits

For further information, please contact the dog warden service on 01744 456338.