Stray dogs

We do not collect stray dogs or accept them from members of the public.
Stray dogs must be reported to the relevant local authority.

Lost your dog?
To find out which local authority you need to contact, click here
Local Authority Search

Emergencies

If an animal is in distress, call RSPCA 0300 1234 9999

If an animal is injured, please take them to your local vet (if it is safe to do so)

Unfortunately, we do not have vets at the Sanctuary and are unable to offer a rescue service.

If you have found a stray dog in Oxfordshire, please contact the relevant council below for help and assistance.

Oxford City Council
Tel. 01865 249811
Press option 5 when prompted and then option 3 to speak to the dog warden
https://www.oxford.gov.uk/info/20059/dogs/167/report_a_stray_dog

South Oxfordshire & Vale of the White Horse
Tel. 01235 422403
env.health@southandvale.gov.uk

Cherwell
Tel. 01295 227007 (Office hours)
Tel. 01295 221531 (Out of hours)
Email: emailcustomer.service@cherwell-dc.gov.uk

West Oxfordshire District Council
Tel. 01993 861000 (Office hours)
Tel. 0151 343 2945 (Out of hours)

Stray cats

We often receive calls about ‘stray’ cats who actually have homes but are taking advantage of generous people who feed them.

In most cases, the cat is not a stray and is simply coming back for more and is usually owned by a neighbour. Cats roaming territory can be quite large.

To try and find out if the cat has a home, please try the following

  1. If it is safe to do so, place a temporary paper collar around the cats’ neck with your contact details on so the owner can call you if the cat goes home.
  2. Take a photo and put up posters locally to let an owner know you’ve seen their cat.
  3. If it is safe to do so, take the cat to a local vet who will be able to scan the animal for a microchip. They may be able to contact the owner, if the owner has registered the microchip and the details are correct. Please call the vet first and ask if they are happy to do this.

If you need any further advice, please call us on 01865 890239.