DOG owners in the North-East are helping to tackle the problem of stray dogs and fouling.
Middlesbrough Council has been working with the Dogs Trust to address the problem by encouraging responsible ownership.
Between them, they have microchipped 2,685 dogs and neutered 272.
The initiative has led to a 20 per cent reduction in stray dogs in the first year and an anticipated 45 per cent by the end of this year.
More than 50,000 free poop scoops have been given out, while the council has installed poop scoop dispensers and dog waste bins across the town.
Dog warden Vicky Allday wore a pet suit yesterday and, along with her pet, Charlie, was outside council offices to encourage people to take part.
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