DOG owners in Herefordshire could face fines of up to £500 if they do not adhere to strict new laws.

From April 6 it will be compulsory for all dogs aged eight weeks and over in the UK to have a microchip.

Owners failing to do so could be fined as part of the new rules, which have been broadly welcomed by animal welfare charities.

According to a Dog’s Trust survey in 2014, modern technologies like microchipping accounted for more than 10,000 dogs being reunited with their owners that year and it says that figure is growing.

Statistics show approximately 1.8 million dogs still do not have a microchip in the UK, but 80 per cent of the pet dog population does currently comply with the new law.

The new legislation is designed to prevent illegal breeding of dogs, bring owners to account for a dog’s aggressive behaviour and reunite lost pets with their rightful owners quickly.

All breeders must microchip their puppies by eight-weeks-old and before they are transferred to a new keeper, who will be responsible for updating it with their details.