Hounslow Council Triumphs with Four Golds in RSPCA PawPrints Awards

Hounslow Council's Animal Welfare team has achieved remarkable success by securing gold in four categories of the RSPCA's esteemed PawPrints Awards. This recognition highlights the council's outstanding contributions to animal welfare, particularly in stray dog services, licensing activities involving animals, housing policies, and kennelling standards.

The RSPCA PawPrints Awards are designed to acknowledge the efforts of local authorities and public bodies in promoting and enhancing animal welfare. Hounslow Council's Animal Welfare team has consistently demonstrated excellence, having previously won gold in the Stray Dogs and Kennelling categories for three consecutive years. This year, their achievements have expanded to include the Housing and Licensing categories, showcasing their comprehensive approach to animal welfare.

In the Stray Dog Services category, Hounslow Council was recognised for its effective care and promotion of responsible ownership for stray dogs. The team goes above and beyond in their efforts to care for abandoned dogs, ensuring they receive the attention and support they need. Notable examples include finding retirement homes for elderly dogs like Buster, a 16-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and rehoming highly driven dogs such as Dutch Herder Ranger, who now serves as a search dog on the south coast. The team has also successfully rehabilitated dogs like Elton, who was traumatised after losing everything he knew.

The council's commitment to maintaining high standards through robust enforcement and compliance was acknowledged in the Licensing of Activities Involving Animals category. Hounslow Council licenses kennels, catteries, dog breeders, pet shops, exhibitors, and zoos, ensuring they meet stringent welfare standards. This dedication to upholding high standards is crucial in promoting the well-being of animals across the borough.

Hounslow Council's pet-friendly policies and support for responsible pet ownership in housing were honoured in the Housing category. The council advises tenants on responsible pet ownership and distributes muzzles required by law to lower-income families, ensuring that all residents have the resources they need to care for their pets responsibly.

In the Kennelling category, Hounslow Council was celebrated for upholding the highest welfare standards in kennelling facilities. The team provides daily care for the dogs, including walks, sensory stimulation through scent work, and activities like mystery boxes with treats hidden in various textures and smells. This comprehensive approach ensures that the dogs in their care receive the attention and enrichment they need to thrive.

Cllr Raghwinder Siddhu, Cabinet Member for Public Safety, Regulatory Services and Enforcement, expressed pride in the team's achievements, stating, "We are proud of our team's inspirational work and grateful for this recognition from the RSPCA. Our Animal Welfare team is truly dedicated to the health and happiness of abandoned dogs in Hounslow. Much credit is due to them personally, for their success in rehoming stray dogs."

The recognition from the RSPCA underscores Hounslow Council's ongoing efforts to deliver world-class animal welfare services. The council's commitment to animal welfare is reflected in their continuous efforts to provide exceptional services and support to the community.

Lee Gingell, public affairs manager at the RSPCA, praised Hounslow Council's achievements, stating, "We are thrilled to recognise Hounslow Council with its four Golds in this year's RSPCA PawPrints Awards. Their commitment to animal welfare is truly commendable and reflects the high standards that the PawPrints awards aim to celebrate. By winning this award, Hounslow Council has demonstrated outstanding dedication to protecting, promoting and enhancing animal welfare, and we hope their achievements inspire others to strive for excellence in this vital area."

The RSPCA PawPrints Awards serve as a benchmark for excellence in animal welfare, encouraging local authorities and public bodies to adopt innovative and effective approaches to animal care. Hounslow Council's success in this year's awards is a testament to their dedication and hard work in promoting the well-being of animals in their community.

As Hounslow Council continues to set high standards in animal welfare, their achievements serve as an inspiration to other local authorities and public bodies across the country. The council's commitment to excellence in animal welfare not only benefits the animals in their care but also enhances the quality of life for residents in the borough.

The recognition from the RSPCA highlights the importance of continued efforts to improve animal welfare standards and promote responsible pet ownership. Hounslow Council's achievements in the PawPrints Awards demonstrate the positive impact that dedicated and innovative approaches to animal welfare can have on communities across England and Wales.