DOG owners in Southend are being reminded their animals need to have a collar and contact tag by law.

The council has taken over the responsibility for stray dogs from the police, and strays will no longer be accepted at police stations.

Head of public protection Dipti Patel said: "We also advise people to provide permanent identification for their dog, such as a tattoo or a microchip with up to date contact details."

In Southend, the council's animal warden, Val Howells, will continue to provide a collection service for stray dogs within the borough on Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 5.15pm.

Outside these hours, anyone finding a dog should contact the council on 01702 215000 for details of where to take the animal.

Essex Police will also discontinue its lost and found dog register.

If anyone wants to know if a lost pet has been handed in, call the council to check as soon as possible.