Dog wardens are hidden heroes in our community, taking lost and stray dogs to a place of safety and reuniting them with their owners where possible. When I was concerned about a dog in Bath suffering from neglect, I was relieved to discover that there was a warden I could report it to. Yet Bath and North East Somerset Council wants to scrap our local dog wardens, replacing them with contractors. 

Besides rescuing strays, wardens:

• Educate the public on responsible dog ownership through campaigns and talks 

• Promote awareness and guidance on dog legislation

• Enforce legislation that applies to nuisance dogs, microchipping and straying

• Protect members of the public from issues arising from irresponsible dog ownership, such as fouling, aggression and nuisance

 If our wardens are made redundant, who will you turn to when you have problems with nuisance dogs or are concerned about a neglected or stray animal? In Bath, dog wardens work five days a week and go above and beyond the call of duty, helping dogs who are suffering cruelty and neglect. If they are replaced by contractors, this will stop. There will also be less likelihood of stray dogs being picked up; when they are, they could well be taken many miles away – meaning that the owners of lost dogs will face a lengthy journey to collect them. 

I understand that B&NES council is facing difficult decisions in order to cut £37 million from its budget by 2020. But ditching the dog wardens will save just £60,000 – a drop in the ocean – and will have a real impact on our community and the welfare of animals in it. Please sign this petition and share it. With enough support, we can make the council think again and save the dog warden posts.