Not every microchip merger has gone smoothly.

Chris Maxted of Dog-G8 warns that seasonal beach bans take effect from May to September across much of the UK, with breaches risking fines of up to £1,000. Devon offers the most dog-friendly beaches year-round, with 79 locations, followed by Cornwall.

A new ePaws survey finds many UK adults in relationships prefer pets to partners, with 51% choosing a countryside walk with their pet and 23% saying they would pick the pet in an ultimatum. Women showed particularly strong loyalty, with 62% more lenient with pets.

Dog owners are reminded that from 1 March to 31 July, dogs must be kept on a short lead in many outdoor spaces to protect ground-nesting birds and wildlife. Kennel Store's Michael Nelson warns that breaching the seasonal rules can bring fines of up to £1,000.

Hundreds of people and their dogs marched in London, Manchester, Glasgow and Exeter to demand an end to Spain's mistreatment of hunting dogs, timed with the season when thousands of Galgos and Podencos are abandoned or killed. The marches coincided with similar protests across Spain and Europe.

Anne Carter of Labrador Lifeline Trust warns that puppies advertised for free or cheaply on social media are often overbred and poorly vetted, especially ahead of Christmas demand. She notes older dogs are frequently abandoned once owners buy a new puppy.