Local authorities given sole responsibility for stray dogs

A change in legislation means that from Sunday 6 April local authorities will be solely responsible for the collection and retention of stray dogs. This places the onus of responsibility on local authorities to make provision for stray dogs in their areas at all times.

In the past, some responsibility for stray dogs has also been with police authorities but this is to change as part of the new DEFRA (Department for the Environment and Rural Affairs) legislation on 'clean neighbourhoods', with the exception of dangerous dogs only.

Steve Goody, director of companion animal welfare at The Blue Cross said: "Like many charities, The Blue Cross is concerned about the welfare of stray dogs following these changes to the law. Many local authorities seem to be insufficiently prepared and funded to provide 24-hour care for strays, and we fear that they will be left with nowhere to go.

"Most charities don't routinely take in strays unless they have a specific arrangement with the local authority, in accordance with statutory guidelines. While they may be signed over to us after the specified holding period, we have limited resources and sadly may not always have the space to take them."

If you find a stray dog

• If the dog has an ID tag, it is probably quickest and easiest to call the contact number and reunite the animal with its owner.
• If there's no ID tag, contact your local authority and the dog can be collected.

If you lose your dog

• If you have spent time looking around the area and are still unable to find your dog, contact your local authority and dog warden,to let them know your dog has gone missing.
• If your dog is microchipped, also contact the relevant organisation.
• Try some of the missing pets websites.

For more information and to download guidance advice on stray dogs, visit the DEFRA website.

1 April 2008