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Report a dangerous dog
A dog is classified as dangerous if it injures someone, or if someone is in fear of being injured. If you have concerns about a dog being dangerous in a public place, whether or not you believe it is a stray dog, you should contact the police.
Report a stray dog
If the dog is not dangerous, please catch it and stop it from running away. If you can identify its owner from a collar tag or microchip, then please contact them directly. If you cannot find out who the owner is then report it to:
Noah's Ark: telephone 0333 5775070 (Monday-Friday 9am-5pm) or 08444 996063 (at other times)
A dog is a stray if:
- it is found in a place where it should not be, and
- appears to be without its owner, and
- appears not to be under the control of its owner or a person representing them.
Report a lost dog
If your dog is lost you should report it immediately to Noah's Ark. They will check their records of stray dogs seized.
Noah's Ark: telephone 0333 5775070 (Monday-Friday 9am-5pm) or 08444 996063 (at other times)
You can also contact the Battersea Dogs and Cats Home Lost Dogs and Cats Line.
- Consider preparing a simple poster with a photograph of your dog on it and ask local vets and shops if you can display it or leaflet the local houses.
- Consider putting an advertisement in the local newspapers.
- Talk to and inform people, especially neighbours and other dog owners.
- If you give out a phone number, make sure somebody can answer as it may be news of your dog.
- Walk around the local area, and check places you normally walk your dog.
Please note posters should not be displayed on lamp columns or other highway furniture such as bollards - this is fly posting and illegal.
Charges
If we collect a stray dog and impound it, or return it to its owner, the owner must pay a charge. The minimum charge is currently £145. You will be recharged for any costs incurred, these may include:
- vet fees
- a pick up fee if collected by the council or its representatives
- a reuniting fee for returning the dog
- and any kennelling fees.
Report a stolen dog
If you think your dog has been stolen you should report it to the police and obtain a crime number.
Collars and microchips
By law, your dog must be microchipped and wear a collar with the owner's name and address on it when out in public. If you break these laws you can be fined up to £5,000.