Volunteer Dog Warden - Vacancy

The Parish Council is looking for someone to fill the post of Volunteer Dog Warden for Seale & Sands. Below is a description of the role to be considered plus it should be noted that the Dog Warden will have the support of the Parish Council when acting on our behalf. It’s possible that the role could be split bewteen two or more people to cover the area more effectively. We are keen to hear from anyone who can help.

Volunteer Dog Warden - For the area of Seale and Sands Parish, responsible to Guildford Borough Council

Areas to walk at regular intervals, or as required:

·       footways and paths, including public footpaths

·       recreation ground Seale to include the play area, sports playing pitch, car park

·       recreation ground The Sands to include the play area, sports playing pitch

·       car parks, public transport bays and surrounds

·      Seale War Memorial

Specific Duties:

·       To advise people what the rules are if they see a dog fouling, not on a lead etc

·       To identify areas of concern, e.g. where grounds are being used for sporting or social activities so cleaning can take place.

·       To keep a “log” of areas visited and any actions needed.

·       To receive and collate information from members of the public regarding anti-social behaviour –specifically around dogs and dog walking– and inform the Parish Council and Guildford Borough Council of actions potentially needed

Specific Details:

·       Ensure dog owners know they are responsible for the health, welfare and behaviour of their pets and should be aware of the legislation surrounding dog ownership. Dogs must be kept under control at all times. This may mean having your dog on a lead especially near roads and other people.

·       Dog Fouling – Dog faeces are not only unpleasant and unsightly but also carry a harmful infection, which can cause serious illness and/or disability if ingested. Identify persons and places where this is taking place. Collect if appropriate.

·       There are four dog waste bins within the Parish to dispose of dog's waste. The bins are emptied weekly and are located at the following sites: Seale Recreation Ground and Sands Recreation Ground. Normal waste bins can also be used.

·       Report to the Parish Council and Guildford Borough Council any major issues or potential legal action which needs to be taken including stray dogs.

·       Barking Dogs - The dog warden can take action against excessive barking from pets. This can be done as long as the noise can be proved to be a statutory nuisance under the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

·      Note:  Not clearing up your dog’s waste is a Criminal Offence under legislation listed, which can be prosecuted in the Magistrates Court with fines of up to £1000.  Further action may also be taken against repeat offenders in the form of Civil Injunctions which, if breached, can result in custodial sentences of up to two years. The penalty for committing an offence contained in a Dog Control Order is a maximum fine of £1,000. Alternatively, the opportunity to pay a Fixed Penalty Notice of £80 may be offered in place of prosecution. This can be reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days.

• ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR, CRIME AND POLICING ACT 2014 -  PUBLIC SPACE PROTECTION ORDER (CONTROL OF DOGS) 2015

·       The dog warden doesn't deal with acts of animal cruelty but if you think any animal is being mistreated you can call the RSPCA Cruelty Line .