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Owners will pay if pets stray
DOG owners will pay the price for allowing their pets to roam the streets during a four-day crackdown on strays.
Wardens from the District of Easington council are launching patrols in east Durham next week as part of a zero tolerance campaign against stray dogs.
The campaign comes after the council picked up almost 1,000 strays in the last two years and council chiefs say they will prosecute any dog owners whose pets are not wearing a tag containing identification details.
The wardens usually return dogs to their homes the first time they are found straying and do not take payment for the service.
However, all strays collected during the authority's Zero Tolerance Week, which starts on Tuesday, August 26, will be put straight into kennels and their owners charged for their return.
Ian Hoult, environmental services manager, said: "Strays are normally only taken to kennels the second time they are picked up or on any subsequent occasion.
"Next week, 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.
"We'll also be reminding people they must keep their dog contained when it's at home, ensure it is on a lead when on or near busy roads and that it always wears a collar with a tag detailing the owner's name, address and telephone number."
The council will also be seeking to prosecute anyone whose pet is not wearing a collar and tag when it is found straying.
Coun George Patterson, executive member for liveability, said: "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 Zero Tolerance approach gives us the opportunity to raise awareness of the issues surrounding strays and also take immediate action against owners who refuse to abide by the law."
Any strays they find will be taken to Coxhoe Dogs Home and the animal's owner will have to pay a 25 charge, plus any additional kennelling costs in order to reclaim their pet.
Residents will also be encouraged to visit the BlitzBus, where they will be able to pick up money-off coupons for neutering, vouchers for free microchipping and information packs on how to be a responsible dog owner.
The bus will be situated in Paradise Lane, Easington Colliery from 10am to 3pm on Tuesday, August 26.
For more information on Zero Tolerance Week contact Envirocall on (0191) 5275040.
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Sunday 27 May 2012
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