The wardens deal with all dog-related complaints and enquiries, but their main job is to deal with the collection and kennelling of strays. They also deal with fouling, including enforcing the dog ban on certain beaches at West Bay and Lyme Regis, and noise nuisance caused by barking dogs.

The dog warden is not responsible for the mistreatment or neglect of dogs. If you are concerned about the treatment of a dog you should contact the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (opens in a new window) on 0300 1234 999.

The service in more detail includes:

• Enforcing dog fouling laws (Clean Neighbourhood & Environment Act 2005) 

• Seizing and kennelling stray dogs

• Keeping a register of stray and lost dogs

• Enforcing the dog ban on certain beaches at West Bay and Lyme Regis

• Enforcing Dog Exclusion Orders

• Enforcing Dog on Leads Orders

• Investigating dog on dog attacks within West Dorset

• Dealing with enquiries, and giving advice to dog owners

• Helping with noise complaints about dogs barking

• Electronic payment of Fixed Penalty Notice

You can report a lost or stray dog online.  Alternatively, for a more immediate response please call us on 01305 251010 with the dogs details.  Please note that Dorset Police will not accept stray dogs although they are responsible for investigating dogs straying on the highway.

• What a responsible dog owner can do

  Your dog can be a faithful friend and effective security guard, however, he doesn't always live up to his reputation and it's not necessarily his fault - it could be yours! West Dorset District Council has put together this guide to help you ensure that your dog really is 'mans best friend'. So here are a few tips and helpful reminders.

• What can we do for you?

  The West Dorset District Council dog warden service provides a range of services.

• Name: Environmental protection (West Dorset)
  Email: env.health@westdorset-dc.gov.uk
  Tel: 01305 251010
  Fax: 01305 252485
  Full details for Environmental protection (West Dorset)