A desperate attempt to rehome Basildon's many stray dogs has seen the police and council turn to the world wide web.

An influx of homeless pooches has seen kennels at the police station and Basildon Council over-run - and few offers of a new home.

The situation has called for drastic action and the two agencies are posting signs up around the district urging animal lovers to have a heart and adopt a pet.

Next month the net will widen and people from outside Basildon will be invited to give a dog a home.

Photos and descriptions of the many hounds looking for loving homes will be posted on the Basildon Council website giving potential owners the rare opportunity to take a look at the dogs on offer from the comfort of their own homes.

Sgt Dave Smith, of Basildon police, said the homing of stray dogs in the district is a "major" problem.

He said: "We are trying everything we can to get these dogs rehomed.

"We are even taking them outside the district to kennels in places like Kent. We are desperate to raise awareness of this situation and to push the new website."

The many unloved and unwanted animals can be visited at any time at Roseville Kennels, in Dunton Road, Little Burstead, and Novem Kennels, in Arterial Road, Wickford.

Call the kennels on 01268 543856 (Roseville) or 01268 726229 (Novem) to arrange a viewing between 1pm and 3pm Monday to Saturday or 9am to 5pm on Sundays.

Visit the website next month at www.basildon.gov.uk

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