There is no statutory definition of a stray dog, however, in most cases it should be evident whether or not there is a person in charge of the dog.
If you have a stray dog in your possession or want to report a stray dog that is out of control, please call 03000 200 292 (option 4, then option 3)
The Dog Warden service operates Monday to Friday between 9am and 4pm and will attend as soon as possible.
Anyone finding a dog outside these hours, on public holidays or at weekends, should take the dog to the nearest police station or contact the police on 101.
If you have lost a dog, please contact the Dog Wardens and provide a description and where it was lost. They will cross reference this with any reports of stray dogs from members of the public, the police, the SSPCA or which have been handed in to Mrs Murray's Home for Cats and Dogs.
You can report a lost, found or stray dog online or by contacting the Environmental Health service.
Reclaiming a dog
Unless the owner can be contacted immediately, stray dogs will be taken to Mrs Murray's Home for Cats and Dogs. Owners will be charged for the uplift and boarding of the dog. The dog will not be released until the charge is paid.
A stray dog not reclaimed by its owner within 7 days will be available for re-homing.