The new statutory duty regarding stray dogs came into force on 6 April 2008.The police are no longer required to accept stray dogs that are taken to them; this responsibility has now been passed to district councils.Amber Valley Borough Council has worked with Derbyshire Constabulary to publicise this change in responsibility.
The duty on councils is only to accept dogs.Amber Valley Borough Council does not have a duty to collect stray dogs outside normal working hours, but our dog wardens will continue to provide a collection service during normal working hours.
“As a result of the change we have identified suitable kennelling within the Borough to which any stray dogs can be taken outside of normal working hours,” explained Julian Townsend, Director of Environmental Services at Amber Valley Borough Council.
“Anyone finding a stray dog should contact our Dog Warden Helpline on 01773 841335.If this is outside normal working hours they will have the option to be transferred to our emergency duty officer who will advise them of where they can take the dog.They will then have the option of either taking the dog to the kennelling, or keeping it until the next working day when collection by our dog wardens would be arranged.
“In all cases the welfare of the dog will be of paramount importance, and we are committed to reuniting dogs with their owners or, if this is not possible, to finding them new homes.”
Anyone who has lost their dog should also contact our Dog Warden Helpline for further advice.
The police retain duties with regard to dealing with dangerous dogs and dogs found to be worrying livestock.
Ends.
For further information please contact Lisa Garnham, PR and Communications Manager at Amber Valley Borough Council, on 01773 841655.
