BHCC - NK - Out of hours dog collection service and kennelling provision

Brighton & Hove City Council requires a single integrated animal welfare service that combines:

1. Out-of-hours stray dog collection and transportation service.

2. Kennelling, care and welfare provision for stray dogs. Reunification to owner or if unclaimed, rehomed or humanely disposed of if unsuitable for rehoming.

3. Collection, transportation, temporary accommodation and welfare support for dogs belonging to vulnerable adults where Adult Social Care has a duty of care under the Care Act 2014, and the owner has become hospitalised, incapacitated, detained, or otherwise unable to care for their dog.

The objective of the contract is to provide a seamless, responsive, humane and legally compliant service that protects animal welfare, supports vulnerable residents, promotes responsible dog ownership and ensures the Council fulfils its statutory duty in relation to stray dogs under Section 149 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and safeguarding responsibilities under Section 47 of the Care Act 2014.

The Service Provider will work collaboratively with Regulatory Services, Animal Wardens, Adult Social Care, Sussex Police, veterinary practices, emergency services and other relevant partners to ensure that dogs are collected, transported, accommodated and cared for safely and professionally.

The contract commences 1 December 2026 for a period of 3 years, with a possible extension of up to 2 additional years.