Stray dogs

All local councils have a duty to pick up stray dogs. Any dog found wandering public spaces alone is classed as a stray, even if they have a collar and ID tag.  

What happens to stray dogs?

Animal Wardens Limited deliver a stray dog and kennelling service for Liverpool City Council, as well as Knowsley, Sefton and Halton councils.

Dogs reported as stray or abandoned are collected by Animal Wardens Limited and they make every effort possible to reunite these dogs with their owners before taking them to kennels.

If an owner cannot be traced, the dog will be taken to kennels and kept there for the maximum of seven days. Dogs not claimed after seven days are given to Animal Wardens Limited for rehoming.

How do I find a lost dog or report a stray dog?

If you are trying to locate a lost dog or need to report a stray dog, please contact Animal Wardens Limited on 0151 374 2174 between 8.30am and midnight.

Details of stray dogs that have been found are also posted on the Dogs Lost website.

Find out about reporting other dog-related issues in Liverpool.

Comments and feedback

If you have a comment or feedback about the dog warden service in your area, you should contact your local council:

• Comments and feedback process for Liverpool City Council
• Comments and feedback process for Halton Council
• Comments and feedback process for Knowsley Council
• Comments and feedback process for Sefton Council