A COUNCIL is claiming success in a campaign to control the number of stray dogs on its streets.

Two years ago, Hartlepool was identified as having too many strays.

Following concerns from animal welfare groups, the council offered a free microchipping service for residents' dogs.

Since the launch in November 2003, more than 1,500 pets have been fitted with the chips, which contain a unique identification number and are inserted under the dog's skin.

The number and the owner's details are stored on a computer database.

If a stray dog is found on the streets, the chip can be scanned, increasing the chances of the animal being quickly reunited with its owner.

A spokesman for Hartlepool council said: "Not only has the chipping service helped cut down the number of strays, it has also resulted in a marked improvement in the cleanliness of the town's streets."

The service has been run with animal welfare charity the Dog's Trust and is free to anyone in receipt of benefits.

The RSPCA also provides a free chipping service to residents.

David Mawson, a trustee of the RSPCA's Durham and Hartlepool District branch, said it was essential that both services were free.

Mr Mawson, who conducted the latest free chipping day for the RSPCA at Westbourne Methodist Church in the town, on Saturday, said: "We did 31 dogs and 39 cats on the day. Many owners rely on these kind of days because they simply can't afford to pay a vet to do this.

"I dealt with a couple who brought along seven pets to be chipped. Neither of them was working and, when you consider vets will charge around £30 per animal, you can see it's just too expensive for someone in their situation."

Mr Mawson applauded the council's service but called on the authority to make more strenuous efforts to advertise the scheme.

He said: "Hartlepool and the North-East region, as a whole, have serious problems with animal welfare and it's important that local authorities take the lead in trying to address these."