Introduction
Councils employ wardens to deal with stray or dangerous
dogs. They also have the power under the 1996 Dog (Fouling of
Land) Act to designate areas as 'no fouling zones', where owners
must clean up after their pets. Some councils also employ
enforcement officers to make sure that this is done. In a
small council the two jobs can be combined. Councils also
have a responsibility to inspect and license premises where dogs
are bred or cared for. If any such establishments are in
their area, enforcement officers make regular visits to do so.
Work Environment
Dog wardens work outdoors in all weathers. T hey might have to
enter some dirty and unpleasant premises. They wear a uniform
and when handling dangerous dogs they wear padded clothing, thick
gloves and sometimes a protective mask. They normally work 37
hours a week; however, a considerable amount of work is done in the
evenings and at weekends.
Daily Activities
Dog wardens make regular patrols and also respond to telephone
calls or letters from local residents. If they find or hear
about a stray dog they go to collect it in a special van fitted
with a grille to keep the dog safely in the back. If the dog
has a nametag they return it to the owner and explain that the dog
should not be allowed to stray. Later they send a letter
containing recommendations on proper dog ownership. If the
dog cannot be identified they take it to an animal welfare centre
or dogs' home.
They also collect dangerous or abandoned dogs, often working
with police or RSPCA officers who need special assistance.
These cases could involve dogs whose owners have died or who have
been evicted from their houses. The dogs may be very upset -
and will not recognise that the warden is trying to help!
They can attack fiercely and need very careful handling.
Wardens have been known to find angry pit bull terriers (which it
is illegal to possess) in empty flats. They may have to catch
the dog, using a net or special tool known as a 'grasper' - a rigid
metal pole with a noose at the end. They can then push the
dog at arm's length into the van and release the noose before
closing the door.
They may occasionally have to arrange for dogs to be put down
humanely.
Enforcement officers also do regular patrols. When they see
an owner making no attempt to clean up after a dog, they can issue
a verbal warning or a ticket for a fine. They usually try to
educate the owner first and use the penalty tickets on a second or
subsequent occasion. They also go to particular areas
following complaints that dogs are persistently fouling. They
may have a very good idea of the owner's identity but must use the
evidence of their own eyes. They also write their own letters
to dog owners and keep records of their cases.
They also visit all boarding kennels, breeding establishments
and pet shops, once every year, to inspect conditions and the way
in which dogs are treated. If they are not satisfied, they
can suspend a licence and the premises may not trade until they
have reached the required standard. They may make additional
inspection visits if they receive complaints about an establishment
from a member of the public. Some dog wardens produce
promotional leaflets and give talks to schools and clubs to
encourage people to look after dogs responsibly.
Skills & Abilities
Dog wardens and enforcement officers need:
- a liking for dogs, plus ability in handling them;
- an understanding of dog behaviour;
- excellent communication skills and tact - as much of their work
involves trying to educate animals' owners (they must also know
when to be firm);
- to be able to recognise common conditions such as mange or
distemper and know how to handle a dog suffering from them;
- to be physically fit and agile.
Entry Requirements
There are no specified qualifications. However, a driving licence
is required. Councils recruit people who have suitable
experience in working with animals. Many have worked as dog
obedience trainers or dog handlers in the police force or armed
services. Some have trained dogs for other roles - as gun
dogs or guide dogs. People with experience in other forms of
investigation or enforcement work or in animal welfare may be
accepted.
Future Prospects & Opportunities
A small council might employ one dog warden/enforcement
officer. In a large council there might be two separate
posts.
Further Information & Services
Animal Wardens www.animalwardens.co.uk
National Dog Warden Association www.ndwa.co.uk
You may find further information about this area of work through
Careers Wales (www.careerswales.com/) or
in your local library, careers office or school careers
library.