Great Yarmouth Borough Council receives prestigious awards for dog warden services and kennelling

The RSPCA's annual PawPrints Awards have been running since 2008 and recognise local authorities and public bodies that go above and beyond to deliver world-class animal welfare services.

They celebrate outstanding work across the UK in animal welfare, responsible pet ownership and the provision of services for stray dogs. Awards are granted based on the achievements and standards set by participating councils.

GYBC has received a gold PawPrint award for its stray dog services and a gold PawPrint award in a new kennelling category.

The kennelling category recognises providers who ensure animals in temporary accommodation receive the highest level of care. It is open to organisations that kennel dogs for animal welfare reasons and only 13 awards were made throughout England and Wales.

The recognition underscores GYBC's unwavering commitment to the welfare of stray dogs and its dedication to providing outstanding animal care services.

Mike Gardiner, of Animal Warden Services, which provides the dog warden service for GYBC, said: "We are thrilled by these awards and are very proud of the whole team. We remain committed to enhancing the welfare of all animals.

''We look forward to continuing our work in collaboration with GYBC and this award reinforces our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of care for all stray dogs and encourages us to keep striving for excellence."

Councillor Paul Wells, Great Yarmouth Borough Council's portfolio holder for Environment and Sustainability, Licensing and Waste, said: ''This award for our services is a testament to the hard work of the council's Animal Control Team, which has consistently demonstrated compassion, expertise and dedication to improving the lives of stray dogs in the Great Yarmouth area.''

Lee Gingell, the RSPCA's public affairs manager for local government, said: "Despite the challenging situation for all local authorities and public bodies, we're thrilled to see GYBC pick up these awards.

"It's a tough time for pet owners as the cost of living crisis continues, a tough time, too, for local authorities and public bodies as demands increase and resources decline.

''In the face of these challenges, we're proud to recognise GYBC as part of the PawPrints Awards for implementing and promoting schemes and policies that protect and promote animal welfare and support pet owners, something which is now more important than ever." 

·       For more information about Animal Warden Services or to learn how you can support its efforts, please visit www.animalwardenservices.co.uk

·       To report a stray dog in the borough please see here: https://www.great-yarmouth.gov.uk/article/2069/How-do-I-report-a-lost-or-stray-dog