Continuing our interview with Croydon Borough dog warden Tara Boswell.
I am sure that no two days are the same but what does a typical day look like in your role?
Generally, a typical day consists of collecting a stray or two, carrying out visits, liaising with rescues, assessing dogs in our kennels, attending meetings and forums, writing letters to owners of dogs and general duties. It really does vary- a few weeks ago I rescued some ducklings!
Over the years, what are some of the most memorable incidents or cases that you have dealt with?
I have had some dogs in, in a terrible state and it has been touch and go whether those dogs would survive. Seeing the dogs brought back to health and on the other side in their new homes, is always an incredibly memorable and rewarding experience.
What elements of your job if any do you dislike?
Being exposed to cruelty, neglect, and exploitation of animals. It’s also difficult not being able to help as much as I’d like, due to restrictions in animal law.
If any, what changes in the welfare of dogs have you seen in the UK in the past few years?
In all honesty, I have found the welfare to be consistently poor. I would have expected, 13 years on to say that things have improved but if anything they are sadly, worse than ever. However, there are definitely less strays than this time seven- eight years ago and there have been some developments in animal welfare legislation.
Has the Covid-19 pandemic had much effect?
Yes it has. As suspected, many “lockdown puppies” are being given up and abandoned. Owners are going back to work and cannot keep them, or they are feeling the effects on the financial crunch from the pandemic and cannot afford their pets. I have collected three strays recently, still producing milk from giving birth to puppies before being abandoned.
On the plus side, since the pandemic, more people have the option of flexible working and are able to adopt a rescue dog, which they may not have been able to do previously when in the office five days a week. This frees up a rescue space for an unclaimed stray dog.
What advice would you give to any owner who might be struggling to fully care for their beloved pet?
Reach out for help! There are charities, which can help provide low-cost vet care for those on a low income or who are on a form of benefit. Vets also often provide payment schemes for bills, which can help break down costs to a more manageable level.
What should the public be looking out for and what should they do if they believe the welfare of a dog or any animal is in danger?
Contact the RSPCA via their cruelty line and also the local police and dog warden service. Stay vigilant and evidence is key – so if it’s safe to do so, take photos and/or videos, which may assist any action taken from the authorities.
On a lighter note, has anything particularly amusing ever happened when doing your job?
Yes, I’ve had some really funny moments over the years, from finding dogs with funny haircuts, to locking myself in one of my van cages!
Finally, do you have any other messages for people reading this interview?
Please microchip and neuter your pets!
If you are thinking about getting a dog or cat, please rescue if you can. If you are intending to buy a puppy, please ensure you go to a reputable, KC registered breeder to avoid buying into the cruel industry of puppy farming.
If you already have a dog, please familiarise yourself with your Local Authority’s stray dog processes so that if your dog goes missing, you know who to call and what to do.
If you are aware of any cruelty to any animal, PLEASE report it – animals need us to be their voice.
Many thanks Tara for giving us some of your valuable time to give us great insights into your role.
Loads of good advice there too. As Tara mentioned there is help out there for pet owners if its needed. Please look at our financial assistance page if you or somebody you know might need some help.
Croydon Council have a dedicated dog warden page that you can view here.
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