The RSPCA has awarded Winchester City Council’s Animal Welfare team a Gold Award for their outstanding work with stray dogs and the licensing of animal establishments.
The team has been recognised for their continued efforts, having picked up a gold award for the third time in four years. The news comes despite the added pressure on the team in light of the pandemic and dog ownership increasing significantly during lockdown.
The team, Dave Griffiths and Ross Shepherd, were recognised for going above and beyond for their work protecting, rehoming and returning stray dogs to their owners and ensuring establishments are providing excellent care for animals.
Dave and Ross, said: “We’re delighted to be awarded the RSPCA Gold award on behalf of the Animal Welfare Team. As a team, we have all been working extremely hard and it is wonderful to have our care and determination awarded.”
Cllr Jackie Porter, Cabinet Member for Built Environment and Wellbeing, said: “We’re extremely proud to have achieved the Gold standard from RSPCA again. The award recognises the hard work and dedication from the council’s Animal Welfare team. During the national restrictions, dog ownership has soared and this award emphasises the brilliant work done by the team under difficult circumstances.
“I know how important animal welfare is to our residents and I am pleased to see the team demonstrating their commitment to the health and happiness of our pets.”
The RSPCA works closely with local authorities, the police and housing associations to help them deliver animal welfare services. The awards recognise organisations that go above and beyond basic requirements to ensure higher welfare standards have been running since 2008.