THE National Canine Defence League brings its travelling roadshow to Crewe next week, helping to protect dogs by offering a micro-chipping service.

The borough council based initiative comes in response to the 200 stray dogs that are picked up from the borough's streets every year, with micro-chipping being offered at £9.50 and free for those on benefits or state pensions.

Paul Eeles, principal environmental health officer added: "Many stray dogs we take in have simply got lost and without an identification tag or microchip it is almost impossible for us to trace their owners."

Advice will also be available about neutering which the National Canine Defence League can arrange for only £20 for owners in receipt of benefit or state pension.

Microchip sessions are available between 10am and 4pm at Crewe Town Square on Monday, 'Pets at Home' at Grand Junction Retail Park on Tuesday, Our House in Timbrell Avenue on Wednesday, and Nantwich Town Square on Thursday.