Lost or stray dogs

What should I do if I find a stray dog?

If it is safe to do so, please try to secure the dog and give it access to fresh water. Our Officers are unable to go looking for strays and will need you to keep a hold of the animal for a brief period until the nearest available Officer can come and collect it from you.

Stray dogs should be reported to the Dog Warden Service at DEFA on 01624 686688.

Please note that the DEFA Dog Warden Service is operational:

Monday - Friday 9am to 4pm (not including bank holidays).

If you find a stray dog outside of these hours please contact the Police Headquarters on 01624 631212 for evenings after 5pm or call the Manx SPCA weekends and bank holidays 9am - 5pm on 01624 851672.

What should I do if my dog is lost?

If you've lost your dog, you can contact the Manx SPCA on 01624 851672 between 9am and 5pm seven days a week. They will take your details and ask for some information about your dog, and then if your dog is found by somebody they will contact you.

Please note that the Manx SPCA charge a kennel fee of £15 per day, which must be paid when you collect your animal.

What will the Dog Warden do with my animal?

If your dog is reported by a member of the public as a stray to DEFA's Dog Warden, the Officer will attend where your dog is found and scan them for evidence of a Microchip. They will then search the details associated with the Microchip to locate you as the owner, we will make every effort to reunite you with your pet, or bring the animal to the Manx SPCA until such a time as you are able to collect*.

Please ensure that your pets Microchip details are kept up to date.

*Please note that this will be subject to the operating hours of the Manx SPCA & their terms and conditions.