Free microchipping, health checks and neutering vouchers will be available as part of specially organised, canine-themed event next week.

‘Bark in the Park’ is being hosted by Newark and Sherwood District Council on Tuesday, June 8 at Vicar Water Country Park, Clipstone and is set to offer plenty of advice to help you become more cunning and clever with your canine.

The outdoor event – which is fully COVID-secure – will take place between 10am and 1pm and is aimed at helping improve dog welfare and responsible dog ownership, as part of the council’s ongoing PAWS campaign.

Among the services on offer will be free micro-chipping, dog grooming tips and health checks from the Minster Vets, as well as neutering vouchers from the RSPCA.

The council’s community protection officers, which forms the district’s dog warden service, will be on hand to talk to offer advice to visitors as well as to help teach safe interaction between children and dogs.

The lockdown period has led to an unprecedented increase in pet ownership, with many acquiring a new pet in response to social isolation and companionship. However, this has increased concerns around animal welfare and responsible ownership.

Recent restrictions have meant limited opportunities for dogs to socialise. In addition, with people returning to work and socialising more, issues are more likely to arise around separation anxiety after owners have been at home for longer periods of time than normal.

Coun Roger Jackson, chairman of Leisure and Environment at the council, said: “We have hosted Bark in the Park events in the past and they have always been a really positive opportunity for pet-owners to gain information and advice. The pandemic has meant we have a lot of new pet owners in our district and this is an ideal opportunity to pop down and taking advantage of the free micro-chipping.

“As well as getting your dog chipped, visitors will also be able to have their “chipped” dogs checked over to make sure the chip is working correctly, and get their pets a free basic health check, including nail clipping, as well as general information and advice on how to look after their dog.”

The council has also organised a small wildlife trail with colouring stations for children to take place on the same day.

More Bark in the Park events are set to take place around the district over the summer months.

Visitors can just turn up on the day, with no requirement to book.