FOCUS Team member Rupert Alexander has become aware that under Government legislation, intended to curb a rise in strays, from April 6 2016 owners need to arrange for their dogs to be microchipped. The procedure involves inserting a sterile chip the size of a grain of rice (which contains the owners’ details) between a dog’s shoulder blades.

To have your dog microchipped contact the council by e mail: dogteam@walthamforest.gov.uk or call 0208 496 3000.