Animal welfare

Our duties include seizing stray dogs, inspecting and licensing animal establishments and promoting responsible pet ownership within the borough.

Lambeth Council can help with some animal welfare issues. For others, you'll need to contact a different organisation.

Animal licences

You may need a licence if you:

  • breed dogs
  • board animals
  • run a pet shop
  • hire out horses
  • keep animals for exhibition
  • keep wild, dangerous or exotic animals
  • keep primates

Find out if you need a licence and how to apply.

Report a stray dog  

If you have found a stray dog or your dog has gone missing, you can report it to us. 

Report a stray dog.

Report dog fouling 

Dog owners are responsible for cleaning up after their dogs in public places. 

If you witness dog fouling, you can report it using our online form. 

Report dog fouling.

Report a dead animal 

If you find a dead animal on a public road or pavement, let us know so we can remove it safely.

Report a dead animal.

If the animal is on private property, you may need to arrange removal through a pest control service.

Other animal welfare issues

Contact the organisations below for animal welfare issues that Lambeth Council does not handle.

Animal cruelty or neglect  

If you are concerned that an animal is being neglected, mistreated or abused, contact the RSPCA

The RSPCA investigates concerns about animal welfare and can advise on the most appropriate action to take. 

If an animal is in immediate danger or a crime is taking place, call 999. 

Report a dangerous dog 

If a dog has attacked someone, is dangerously out of control or poses a risk to public safety, contact the Metropolitan Police. 

If there is an immediate risk to people, call 999. For non-emergencies, call 101.

Report concerns about wildlife 

If you find a sick or injured wild animal or bird, contact the RSPCA for advice. 

If you are concerned that wildlife is being trapped, harmed or killed illegally, contact the RSPCA or the police.

Imported animals and illegal animal movements 

Illegally imported animals should be reported to City of London who act as the statutory authority for animal health and biosecurity throughout Greater London.

Animal welfare charter

Read our Animal Welfare Charter (PDF 260KB) to find out how we promote and protect animal welfare in Lambeth.

Contact us

Email: animalwelfare@lambeth.gov.uk

Phone (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm): 020 7926 8860

Emergency phone (evenings and weekends): 020 7926 1000