The dog's welfare is paramount. We ensure that all stray dogs found in the borough and brought to us are treated humanely. They must not suffer any further pain or stress whilst in our care.
We only collect stray dogs that you have confined and under control. To arrange a collection, call 03444 828 320. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including bank holidays.
Lost dogs
If you have lost your dog, it may have been collected by a Dog Warden. Please visit lostdogsuk.co.uk. Our Dog Warden service uploads details of dogs to the website within 24 hours. You can also call the service on 03444 828 300.
Stray dogs
If the owner cannot be found, stray dogs are sent to one of our kennels for seven days. During this time, the owner can claim their dog. After seven days, all unclaimed stray dogs will go to a rescue charity for re-homing.
We have a non-destruct policy. Unclaimed dogs are only put to sleep if:
- they are a banned breed
- there is veterinary advice or
- there are behaviour concerns.
Reclaiming a dog
If we have your dog, you can reclaim it by calling 03444 828 300 during office hours. You will need to provide:
- proof of residential address (e.g. utility bill); and
- proof of ownership. This can be a kennel club registration, microchip details or vet bill. A photograph alone may not be enough proof of ownership.
You will also need to pay a charge for the collection and kennelling of your dog:
- Statutory fine: £25.00
- Daily kennelling fee: £28.80
- Administration fee: £18.20
If your dog needed veterinary treatment, you would need to pay for this. You must pay by Debit or Credit card over the phone before being reunited with your dog.
Dangerous or aggressive dogs
If you are concerned about dangerous dogs, please call the police on 101. This includes dogs causing a hazard to traffic or if you have been attacked by a dog.
Microchipping
Since April 2016, all dogs must be microchipped. Breeders must microchip puppies before selling them at eight weeks. It is an offence not to update the microchip database if you sell or re-home your dog.
Lost cats
We do not provide a service for lost cats. If you have lost your cat:
- Contact Battersea Lost Dogs and Cats Line to file a missing report. They can be contacted on 0901 477 8477, Monday to Sunday, 8am to 8pm.
- Contact local vets, shelters and animal hospitals.
- Contact the relevant database and update your details. This is if your cat is microchipped.
- You can make flyers and posters with your missing pet's description and photos.
Animal welfare
Our Dog Warden service does not deal with animal welfare issues. If you are worried about the welfare of an animal please contact the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999.