Thousands of stray dogs are reported to local authorities every year, with the Dogs Trust estimating that almost 50,000 are dealt with every 12 months. But the charity also says there is a huge variation in the way local authorities respond to stray dogs - with some saying they handled none at all in a year while others tackled hundreds.
The Government says that if you find a stray dog and know who it belongs to, you have to return it, with a widget on the Government website helping you find a local dog warden.
The situation is the same in Wales - where local authorities will help. Carmarthenshire County Council says: "Our dog wardens are responsible for seizing stray dogs, often in response to calls from members of the public or when on active patrol of the county. Stray dogs will be kennelled and inspected by a vet if required."
The Dogs Trust says if you find a dog you should - if it's safe to do so - checks its collar and contact your local dog warden, through the council.
A spokesman for the RSPCA said: "You should try to find out if it has an owner and who they are; you can find information on finding an owner on the national RSPCA website."
The RSPCA advice, if your warden cannot help, is...
1. Contact local vet surgeries to check if the animal has been microchipped
2. Contact animal hospitals and rehoming centres.
3. Check Animal Search UK to see if the found animal is registered.
4. Use social media to announce you've found a pet.
Experts have issued advice on what to do if you find a stray dog
If you encounter a stray dog in the UK, it's important to prioritize your safety while also taking steps to ensure the well-being of the animal. Here are some general guidelines on what you should do:
- Stay calm and assess the situation: Observe the dog from a safe distance to determine its behavior. If the dog appears aggressive, injured, or in immediate danger, contact the appropriate authorities right away.
- Don't approach the dog directly: Stray dogs can be scared or defensive, especially if they've had negative experiences. Avoid making sudden movements or loud noises that could frighten the dog further.
- Ensure your safety: If the stray dog seems friendly and approachable, and it is safe to do so, you may attempt to help. However, always prioritize your own safety and do not put yourself at risk. Avoid touching the dog if you're uncertain about its behavior.
- Contact the local authorities: Notify your local council's dog warden or animal control service about the stray dog. They will be able to take appropriate action, such as attempting to locate the owner or safely capturing the dog.
- Provide necessary information: When reporting the stray dog, provide details such as the dog's location, appearance, and behavior. This information will help the authorities in their efforts to assist the dog.
- Check for identification: If it is safe to do so, you can check if the dog is wearing a collar with identification tags or a microchip. This information may help reunite the dog with its owner more easily.
Remember, it's important to avoid taking risks when dealing with stray dogs. Leave it to the professionals who are trained and equipped to handle such situations safely.
If you come across a stray dog in the UK, there are a few different organizations you can contact depending on your location. Here are some options:
- Local council or dog warden: Contact your local council or dog warden to report the stray dog. They are responsible for handling stray dogs in many areas and can provide assistance. You can usually find their contact information on your local council's website or by calling their general helpline.
- Animal welfare organizations: In the UK, several animal welfare organizations work to rescue and rehome stray dogs. Some well-known organizations include the RSPCA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), Dogs Trust, and Blue Cross. You can contact these organizations for guidance and to report the stray dog you've encountered.
- Non-emergency police line: If you're unable to reach your local council or dog warden, you can contact the non-emergency police line and inform them about the stray dog. They can help direct you to the appropriate local authority or provide further guidance.
Remember to provide as much information as possible about the stray dog's location, appearance, and behavior when contacting these organizations.
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This information will assist them in taking appropriate action and potentially reuniting the dog with its owner or finding it a suitable home.
