RSPCA gold award for council's dog warden services

PawPrints is an annual scheme run by the RSPCA to recognise local authorities, housing associations, contingency planners and other public sector organisations that go beyond basic and statutory requirements to ensure higher welfare standards for animals in the services they provide.

A council spokesperson said: ''Great Yarmouth Borough Council is delighted to have been recognised by the RSPCA for its dog warden work. Receiving a Gold Award for our stray dogs services demonstrates our compassionate and effective approach to animal care and is testament to the service we provide.''

In its citation, the RSPCA said the council continues to go over and above to deliver for its local communities - both people and animals - adding that it was inspirational to see organisations which continue to demonstrate high levels of commitment to animal welfare, especially in the face of steep challenges and obstacles. It said the awards were a shining example of how working together can improve people's lives and animal welfare. 

Mike Gardiner, of Animal Warden Services, which provides the award-winning dog warden service for Great Yarmouth Borough Council, said: ''We work hard to deliver the best possible service to the borough's residents and act promptly when alerted to stray dogs - always aiming to treat the animals as humanely as possible and reunite them with owners when we can. It's very pleasing the RSPCA has highlighted the service we deliver.''

Launched in 2008, PawPrints celebrates public sector organisations who work hard to deliver higher animal welfare standards - and act as an inspiration for others to do the same.

Awards are split into five categories: stray dog services, housing, contingency planning, animal activity licensing and kennelling. Each category has three levels: bronze, silver and gold - with each level carrying progressively more challenging criteria.

RSPCA public affairs manager for local government, Lee Gingell, said: "We're over the moon to recognise Animal Warden Services for their efforts in keeping stray dogs safe; and to recognise the service offered in the Great Yarmouth local authority area. 

"It's a tough time for animal owners - and we know services like the one delivered in this area will provide a lifeline for many at this time.

"Too often, this work is unsung and doesn't get the credit it deserves. PawPrints is all about shouting from the rooftops - praising those public bodies looking way past statutory minimums because it's the right thing to do - for humans and animals."

50 public bodies have received 69 awards in total in this year's award scheme.

If you want to report a stray dog to Great Yarmouth Borough Council's warden service please call 01362 858500 or email info@animalwardenservices.co.uk