Our Dog Warden Service provides information, advice and education on responsible dog ownership.

The service also investigates all dog control offences but not dangerous dogs, these are dealt with by the police. In addition advice on responsible dog ownership will be provided, as well as practical initiatives such as microchip identification and the issue of poop scoops.

Dog Warden Charges from 1 April 2008

Where there are dogs straying onto the highway, you should contact the local police.

Please do not allow your dog to roam free in public places, as we will seize stray dogs or collect them from members of the public who have detained them. The dogs are then taken into kennels; legislation dictates that owners have to pay to recover their dogs. 

The dog warden service will collect stray dogs between 8.30am and 5pm, Monday to Friday and take them to the Council's nominated kennel.  The owner of the dog will then have to pay the Government set fee plus the cost of kennelling for the dog to be returned. 

To report a stray dog telephone 01233 330 340 or use our Found a Stray Dog form or Lost a Dog form.

You can also register your lost or stolen dog with the Dog Lost website.

Dog owners receiving means-tested benefits or on low incomes may be able to have their dogs neutered for a reduced price via one of several neutering schemes around the UK. Contact the Dogs Trust on 020 7837 0006 for more information.

We offer a local microchipping service for dogs which is undertaken in your own home.

Dog Fouling

We also provide enforcement and education services in respect of dog fouling issues. In all instances where evidence is obtained formal action will result, including the issue of on the spot fines (Fixed Penalty Notices).

We provide free poop scoop bags which are available from the Civic Centre in Tannery Lane and other locations throughout the Borough.

The dog warden service is not responsible for emptying dog waste bins; this is managed by our Street Cleansing service.