Tougher measures are being used to keep dogs off the streets in Berkshire.

The Public Protection Partnership have launched a campaign to help re-unite stray dogs with their owners following a spike in reports of lost dogs.

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Animal wardens have been sent out to local veterinary practices and rescue centres across Bracknell, Wokingham and West Berkshire to tell them of the campaign.

A spokesman from the PPP said: "Each month our animal warden team deal with around 10-15 stray dog collections across the three authorities.

"However we're also aware that there's many more instances of stray dogs handed in directly to veterinary practices or rescue centres without any contact with the animal warden teams.

"Our involvement means that we're better able to take the the opportunity to educate owners as to their legal responsibilities with their dogs (microchipping and collar/tag with address). There is also the potential risk that a dog may be returned to the wrong owner. "

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The animal warden teams have been made aware there are dogs who have been found straying on multiple occasions and returned to owners, which have not been reported on properly.

Vet practices and centres have "welcomed the approach" and opportunity to work with the animal warden team.

Vets are being encouraged to keep a record if a stray dog is brought in.

They are being asked to record the date, time and location of where found (Ideally including a postcode), name and contact details of finder, a brief description of dog - breed, distinguishing marks etc

and details recorded on microchip, if any.