RSPCA award for Wirral's compassionate way with stray dogs (From Wirral Globe)

RSPCA award for Wirral's compassionate way with stray dogs

3:44pm Monday 22nd October 2012 in News

Wirral Council has received national recognition for the effective and compassionate way it deals with stray dogs.

The council’s animal control and welfare service has been named as a recipient of a "Silver Footprint Award" from the RSPCA for its handling of strays - the only Merseyside authority to be recognised individually this year for animal welfare services.

The Greater Merseyside Dog Welfare Forum received the Innovator award for its work on a guidance document explaining which organisations are responsible for what with regard to dog welfare.

Councillor Brian Kenny, cabinet member for environment, said: “What a great achievement for everyone involved with our animal welfare service.

"I think the staff and volunteers know how valued they are locally, they fully deserved to be recognised on the national stage.

"It is fair to say, we only missed out on a Gold award because our facilities are not staffed 24 hours a day."

It was a double celebration for Wirral as, in partnership with the five other Merseyside councils, it received the prestigious "Innovator" award.

The Greater Merseyside Dog Welfare Forum received the award for its work on a guidance document regarding dog welfare.

Councillor Kenny added: “The winning of the innovator award, which is being presented at the House of Lords, reflects the importance and need for our continuing proactive co-operation and strong working relationship with our colleagues across Merseyside.”