Stray dogs to be cared for at Hilbrae Rescue Kennels

Marty Burrell, who runs the facilities, said the kennel's main aim would be to return the animals to their owners as soon as possible.

She said it was really important that people get their dogs micro-chipped and that they wear a collar while in a public place.

The kennels, which are based in Cold Hatton, previously provided kennelling services for stray dogs for Telford & Wrekin Council.

But under the new contract, they will collect a reported stray dog, scan it for a microchip and look after it until the owner is found.

They are also now in charge of storing and distributing the council's stock of free dog mess bags to 50 shops, offices and centres across the borough.

The kennels took on the new contract from the start of this month.

Angie Astley, assistant director for customer & neighbourhood services at Telford & Wrekin Council, said: “Hilbrae is an established kennels with whom the council has worked well in the past.

"It has now taken on all aspects of dealing with stray and roaming dogs. It has also taken over the storage and distribution of the council’s stock of free dog poop scoop bags to more than 50 shops, offices and centres across the borough. Members of the public can help themselves to the free bags from any of these participating venues.”

Ms Burrell said no stray dogs would be put to sleep unless on advice of a vet.

She said: “Our aim will continue to be to return stray dogs to their owners as soon as possible. It is important that all dogs wear a collar with tag while in a public place, that it is micro-chipped and that the contact details are kept up to date. No stray dogs are put to sleep unless on the advice of our vet. They stay with us until homes can be found.”

Lost, stray or roaming dogs can be reported to Hilbrae on 01952 541254 or through its website at hilbrae.co.uk