ANIMAL lovers are being offered free microchips for their pets, in an effort to stop dog fouling and other problems caused by strays.
Durham County Council neighbourhood wardens hosted a pilot event and hope to hold others across the county in future.
Warden Natalie Davies said: "We decided that, in addition to regular patrols of hot spot areas, a proactive approach was needed to tackle this growing problem.
"The council already offers a free microchipping service at local kennels, but the pilot event took the service directly into the community."
Councillor Brian Stephens, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for streetscene, said: "The pilot event meant that wardens could share important information and advice with dog owners.
"It was very successful and we hope to host similar events across the county in the coming months."
The pilot event was held at Flambard Community Centre, in Framwellgate Moor, Durham.
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