AN animal control team has been given an award for its dedication to ensuring high welfare standards for animals.

The RSPCA has awarded Basildon Council's animal control team with its Gold Stray Dog Footprint Award, for going above and beyond in caring for and reducing the number of stray dogs in the district.

Given under the RSPCA’s Community Animal Welfare Footprints (CAWF) scheme, the award celebrates good practice in organisations which have high animal welfare standards.

Sarah Moran, Animal Control Officer, said: “We are really pleased that we have been recognised for our achievements for another year running.

"We have been working hard to encourage responsible dog ownership and reduce the borough’s stray dog numbers and have seen a reduction of around 10 per cent in the number of stray dogs compared to the previous year.

"Unfortunately half of strays still remain unclaimed but we are hopeful that the recent introduction of compulsory microchipping will make a noticeable difference in the future.”

First launched in 2008, the scheme awards councils with Gold, Silver or Bronze awards, depending on the level of service provided by the organisation.

Councillor Richard Moore, Cabinet Member for Planning said: “This is wonderful news.

"The council has high standards when it comes to animal welfare and this award is testament to this.

"The Animal Control team works tirelessly to care for stray and unclaimed dogs, including raising awareness of the importance of microchipping, and providing free microchipping and advice at its dog care events, held in partnership with Dogs Trust and the RSPCA.”

Rachel Williams, the RSPCA’s senior parliamentary adviser, added: “We would like to congratulate all the winners on receiving a CAWF award.

"It is a major achievement for any local authority and is a chance for organisations who are committed to making a difference and improving animal welfare in their communities, to shine and be recognised.”