Animal Welfare Officers

Dog laying down

Southampton's Animal Welfare Officers investigate complaints about animal welfare, deal with lost and found dogs and regulate some business activities involving animals, such as pet shops.

If you are operating a home boarding or 'dog sitting' service within the city of Southampton, you should apply for a licence.

Southampton has two Animal Welfare Officers providing a range of animal-related services:

Collection of stray dogs either directly from the streets or from members of the public who have found them
Advice to dog owners on behavioural issues such as noise, aggression and destructive behaviour in the home
Work with community groups to provide education in responsible dog ownership and how to be safe around dogs
As an inspector under the Animal Welfare Act, working closely with the RSPCA to prosecute offenders
Inspect animal-related licensed premises (pet shops, breeders, boarding establishments)

If you need to contact us about us about an issue that needs a fast response please call 023 8083 3005 option 4 (during office hours).

For non-urgent matters email animal.welfare@southampton.gov.uk.