'Zero tolerance' over stray dogs

Almost 1,000 stray dogs were returned over the past two years

Dog owners in east Durham are to be charged for the return of stray dogs by council wardens.

At the moment strays in the Easington area are returned to owners for free.

But council bosses have decided to get tough with rogue pet owners who they say were responsible for almost 1,000 strays over the past two years.

Easington Council said any strays found during a four-day campaign, starting on 26 August, will face a £25 fee and any additional kennel costs.

'Danger to public'

Ian Hoult, the council's environmental services manager, said: "Strays are normally only taken to kennels the second time they are picked up or on any subsequent occasion.

"However, we'll be taking a tougher stance in the hope of highlighting how seriously we take the problem of owners allowing their pets out unaccompanied."

George Patterson, executive member for liveability, added: "During the past two years we have picked up almost 1,000 strays.

"These animals are a problem because they foul in public places, can be responsible for unwanted litters and can also pose a danger to the public."

The four-day campaign will see council environmental wardens stepping up their patrols of the district.