Dog and Animal Fouling

Dog Fouling

Under The Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996, it is an offence not to clean up after a dog has defecated on public land. A person may be issued with a £50 fixed penalty fine if they do not clean up or alternatively may be prosecuted through the Magistrates Court, where the maximum fine is £1000.

If you are aware of offenders causing a particular problem in your neighbourhood, you can contact Environmental Health who will investigate and take appropriate action to prevent the recurrence of the problem.

When out with your dog you should always be prepared to clean up if your dog defecates. Dog waste bags are easily carried and readily available from most pet stores and vets. Plastic carrier bags can be recycled for the same purpose.  Dog waste wrapped in this way can be disposed of in any ordinary litter bin or dog waste bin. If no bins are available the waste should be taken home and placed with normal household waste.

Stray Dogs

If you find a stray dog you should contact the Council’s Contact Centre (Monday to Friday 0900 - 1700) or Out of Hours Emergency Contact Centre. They will contact the Council’s Contractor who will collect the stray if and only if it has been secured up until 2000hrs.

We do not have a Dog Warden Service nor do we have a reception centre where the public can take a dog.  All strays must be secured for the Contractor to collect.

If the stray appears to be dangerous then you should call the Police on: 0845 4564567.

If you have lost your dog, please call us on 01493 846478 and our Contact Centre will ask Environmental Health to check the dogs found register and put you in touch with the Contractor accordingly.

Monday - Friday 9 am - 5 pm Tel 01493 846478

Any other times Tel 01493 330369