PET owners have been encouraged to get their cats and dogs microchipped before it becomes compulsory in two years’ time.

The Pets At Home store at Anchor Retail Park, in Active Way, Burnley, will offer the service for a discounted rate this weekend as part of the drive to make owners more aware of the government deadline.

Adam Wolstenholme, store manager at Pets At Home Burnley, said: “With microchipping technology, if your dog is lost or stolen, there is a better chance you will avoid the heartache of losing a pet.

“Microchipping in its simplest terms means that if your cat or dog is lost or stolen there is a better chance they will be returned to you.

“Microchipping is a simple, relatively painless and essential procedure for ensuring the welfare of your pet; it’s a fool-proof method of keeping your pet safe.”