Stray and lost dogs
If you find a stray dog or have lost your own, it’s important to report it as soon as possible.
View our service requests privacy notice (PDF 97KB) to find out what we do with your information.
How to report a stray dog
During office hours (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm), contact us by:
- Phone: 01346 415 888
- Email: dog.warden@aberdeenshire.gov.uk
Please give us the following details:
- A description of the dog (breed, colour, size)
- Location where last seen
- Any collar details (if known)
- Your contact details
Our officers aim to respond quickly. Please note that travel time and kennel opening hours may affect our ability to collect stray dogs.
Outside office hours please call Police Scotland on 101 or take the dog to your nearest police station.
How to report a lost dog
To report a lost dog contact us by phone on 01346 415 888 or email at dog.warden@aberdeenshire.gov.uk.
Please give us the following details:
- A description of the dog (breed, colour, size)
- Date and location where last seen
- Any collar, tag, or microchip details
- Your contact details
We will check the details against any collected strays and keep a log of lost dog reports.
How we handle stray dogs
Dogs collected during working hours are taken to a boarding kennel chosen by the council.
We don't publicly share kennel details, you must contact us to make arrangements if your dog has been collected. Owners must pay any uplift and kennel charges before their dog is released.
Dogs are kept for the statutory 7-day period. If unclaimed, they will be considered for rehoming.
Your responsibilities
If you find a stray dog, contact us as soon as possible. Even short delays can affect animal welfare and our ability to collect the dog. After hours, it’s essential to call the police or take the animal to a station.
Under Scottish law, dogs must be microchipped. If you own a dog please make sure your dog’s microchip details are up to date to help us reunite pets with their owners.