Pet owners will be able to get advice from an array of animal experts at a new event in Devizes.

The RSPCA Wiltshire-Mid branch is promoting responsible pet ownership and has got representatives from numerous organisations for the event on The Green on Sunday.

There will be welfare education from RSPCA inspectors, puppy class information, an animal behaviourist from Bath Cats and Dogs Home and local vets. Other organisations which will be present are Cats Protection, Dogs Trust, Devizes Kats and Kits and Wiltshire Wildlife Hospital.

Microchipping will be available for dogs, with vouchers available for cats. There will also be free cat neutering vouchers, however the numbers are limited.

Andy Sheppard, treasurer of the local RSPCA branch, said: “We haven’t done anything as big as this before. “For the last 30 years we have organised an autumn fair in the Corn Exchange but we wanted to do something different.

“The purpose is to get information to people who have pets or want to own a pet.”

Mr Sheppard, who also owns Rangebourne Pet Care in New Park Street, said: “We get people in the shop all the time looking for help and information on pets. “We get people looking for a puppy but they don’t know where to go and people wanting advice from vets, such as when should they worm their dog, or wanting to know about dog training.”

Devizes Kats and Kits, which looks after homeless cats, will have a fundraising stall selling high quality bric a brac.

Founder Lorraine Spencer said: “In general, if you are thinking of having any pet you need to inform yourself as much as possible about the pet’s needs in care and welfare, whatever the species. This includes veterinary fees, monthly food costs, living accommodation, if appropriate, before you do anything.” There will also be a fun dog show at the event, which runs from 11am to 4pm. Among the classes are best veteran, prettiest bitch, most handsome dog and my best friend – based on the owner’s explanation as to why their dog is special to them.

Dogs under six months or with docked tails are not allowed to enter. Registration is at 11am with classes starting at noon. Entry is £1 per class.