Wiltshire Council's Dog Warden service has received national recognition from the RSPCA.
The service has been awarded a Gold Stray Dogs award in the annual RSPCA PawPrints Awards 2022.
The annual awards recognise local councils that have clear procedures and protocols in place that ensure the welfare of stray dogs. There are a number of categories in the awards, with bronze, silver and gold standards in each.
It was noted that the team's work continues to inspire others, especially during difficult circumstances, with a large increase in stray dogs this year.
The work of the team contributes to safe and active communities where people can live well together, all key aspects of the council’s business plan.
Cllr Ian Blair-Pilling, Wiltshire Council Cabinet Member for Public Protection, said: "We are extremely proud of our Dog Warden Service and all that they have achieved. This award highlights the hard work that goes into the service and the high standards that we strive to achieve.
“This has been an especially difficult year for the team, with long waiting lists at shelters and a large increase in stray dogs, many of which appear to have been abandoned by their owners. Through all these difficult circumstances, the team has maintained and even enhanced the service. I couldn’t be prouder of them.
"Congratulations to everyone involved – this award is very well deserved."
RSPCA public affairs manager for local government Lee Gingell said: "We're delighted to recognise Wiltshire Council's stray dog provision with a gold PawPrint.
“From proactive work to encourage responsible pet ownership to the provision of an out-of-hours service, this service is vital for animal welfare in Wiltshire.
“The council joins 50 public bodies across England and Wales recognised for going above and beyond for animals.
“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 past statutory minimums because it's the right thing to do - for humans and animals.”
If anyone finds a stray dog and cannot contact the owner, it is a legal requirement to report it to Wiltshire Council by calling 0300 4560107.
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