Stray dogs

Stray dogs are not only a nuisance to residents but can also pose a danger on the road.

What is a stray dog?

A stray dog is any dog found to be unattended.  This is regardless whether the dog has any identification on it.

Who deals with stray dogs?

As of the 6th April 2008 the responsibility of stray dogs falls solely onto Local Authorities.  The Police will no longer accept stray dogs at their stations.

Who do I call if I find a stray dog?

Enfield Council provide a Stray Dog Collection Service which operates between 7am - 10pm every day. 

Tel:  07775 337930

What happens to stray dogs?

The Officer who attends to collect a stray dog will try to trace the owner and return it.  A reclamation fee is charged to the owner for the return of the dog, plus any veterinary costs incurred whilst the dog is in our possession.

If an owner cannot be identified immediately then the dog shall be transported to local kennels.

Once at the kennels the dog will either be kept for 7 days or will be sent to Battersea Dogs and Cats Home where it will also be kept for 7 days.  This is the statutory period a dog must be kept before it can be rehomed.

If the dog is kept at our kennels for 7 days and not claimed we will rehome the dog.  This will either be through our own rehoming process or through a registered charity dogs home.

STRAY DOGS AND THE LAW

Environmental Protection Act 1990

Every Local Authority has the power to seize any dog considered to be a stray dog and detain it.  Owners of stray dogs shall not be entitled to have their dog returned until expenses for its detention have been paid.

Control of Dogs Order 1992

Every dog whilst in a public place must wear a collar and tag with details of the owner attached. 

We also advise microchipping your dog.  The Animal Welfare Department provide this service at a low cost.