Dog Warden Service

This service oversees stray dog processes and all other matters in relation to dogs, specifically dog fouling.

Stray dogs

A dog collected as a stray dog will be kept in a safe and secure kennel until it is claimed by the owner or re-homed. Reasonable enquiries will be made to identify and contact the owner to arrange collection from the kennel.

A stray dog not collected within 7 days will be re-homed where possible. In extreme cases where dogs cannot be re-homed they may be destroyed.

The stray dog service is available between 0800 and 2100 each day. Stray dogs and lost dogs may be reported on 01432 261761.

Full cost recovery is implemented in respect of stray dogs. If your dog has been 'seized' as a stray you will have to pay set charges before it is returned to you. Charges can be avoided if dogs are kept under control at all times by the owner or person in charge, or kept to a minimum if the legal requirement of ensuring a dog in a public place is wearing a collar with the name and address of the owner thereon. If a dog is also micro-chipped it is likely to be returned more quickly.

Enforcement

Dog wardens cannot be everywhere all of the time, but will target enforcement patrols, particularly in respect of dog fouling, where information is received that it is a particular problem. A person in charge of a dog that defecates and who fails to remove the faeces may be prosecuted. A fixed penalty notice of £50.00 may be offered as an alternative to prosecution.

Noise nuisance caused by dogs is investigated by environmental health teams in each geographical area. [see Pollution in the related pages box at the bottom of page].

Charges

Email: info@herefordshire.gov.uk