DUDLEY Council is urging dog owners to ensure their animals are safe after collecting more than 500 pets in one year.

Since the authority took over responsibility for the collection of stray dogs from police in April 2008 they have reunited 162 animals with their owners while the rest were sent to new homes.

Officers say stray dogs can be dangerous if they become aggressive and can also have health problems through lack of food and general care.

Councillor David Stanley, cabinet member for environment and culture, said: “It is very sad that some dogs do end up wandering the streets for various reasons, and it is important that as a council we deal with this problem as efficiently and kindly as possible.

“Dog owners also have a responsibility to look after their dogs and to make sure they aren't a nuisance or a hazard to others.”

Owners are being urged to make sure gardens and animals are secured properly in a bid to cut the number of strays.

People are also asked to make sure their dogs are microchipped and have a collar with an identification tag bearing the name and contact details of the owner.

If people find they are unable to cope with their pets they should take them to a local animal rescue centre or contact the RSPCA.

Stray dogs rescued by the council are taken to Rosedene Animal Rescue Centre, Walsall, where every effort is made to rehome them.

Anyone who sees a stray dog between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday, can contact Dudley Council on 01384 812345.