Our response to dead animals depends on their type and location. You can report the following types of animals online:
- Small domestic animals (such as a dog or cat).
- Large domestic animals (such as horses or sheep).
- Wild animals (such as badgers or foxes).
- Rodents (rats or squirrels).
- Birds.
We try to respond to reports within two working days. This is unless there is a health and safety hazard. If so, we will deal with the reported issue immediately.
We do not deal with dead animals that are on private land. We recommend that you contact the landowner in this instance.
Reporting a dead animal
To report a dead animal you will need to provide:
- The type of animal
- The location of the animal
- Any extra information that may help your report
How we deal with different animal types
Domestic Pets
If we find a pet with a tag, we will contact the owners to arrange for the retrieval of the animal. Our office will receive your report. A specialist team will then pick them up using a scanner and database to identify the owners.
Deceased domestic pets are stored for one week. This allows for pets with unknown owners to be claimed. In the event that no owner is identified the animal will be cremated.
If you want to check if your dog has been picked up by our wardens, visit our lost dogs page.
You can contact us about a lost domestic animal. We can arrange to return the animals to their owners.
Large domestic and wild animals
Our specialist team gets reports of large domestic animals, like horses, sheep, and cattle. They record any details before clearing the animal.
Rodents
Local street cleaning crews may pick up rodents. You do not need to report them online. Nearby fly-tipping crews may also pick up the animal and dispose of them safely.
Birds
Local street cleaning crews may pick up hard-to-identify birds. You do not need to report them online. Nearby fly-tipping crews may also pick up the animal and dispose of them safely.