Increase in Stratford stray animals possibly linked to Covid.

Stratford-on-Avon faces a growing number of stray dogs, with council data showing a sharp rise since the Covid-19 lockdowns. Pets acquired during the pandemic may be contributing, increasing costs for collection and care while challenging local resources.

The Stratford-on-Avon District has seen a significant increase in the number of stray dogs, with evidence suggesting that pets purchased during the Covid-19 lockdown may be contributing to the trend. In 2024, the District Council collected 44 stray dogs, more than double the 19 dogs collected in 2023.

Stray Dog Numbers Continue to Grow

Data shared during a meeting of the council’s regulatory committee revealed that in 2025, 41 dogs were recovered and temporarily accommodated by the council. The council anticipates that the number of stray dogs will continue to rise in the future. Henry Biddington, the environmental health and licensing manager, explained that the economic pressures and the ownership of dogs acquired during the pandemic may be driving the increase in abandoned pets.

The growing stray dog population has already led to higher expenses for collection and boarding, placing additional demands on council resources and impacting the delivery of services.

Possible Link to Covid-19

While there is no conclusive evidence directly connecting the pandemic to the surge in stray dogs, there are indications that a connection may exist. Biddington noted that pets obtained during Covid-19 restrictions could be a contributing factor. Supporting this, figures from the Pet Food Manufacturers Association showed that more than three million households adopted a pet in the year following the start of the pandemic in 2020, during the final period of lockdowns aimed at reducing Covid-19 transmission.

Council Procedures for Stray Animals

During the committee meeting, Councillor Sarah Whalley-Hoggins asked about the council’s procedures for managing unwanted animals. The council outlined its policies as follows:

• Pet owners have seven days to reclaim their animals.
• After this period, kennels attempt to re-home the dogs where possible.
• Dogs that cannot be re-homed may be euthanized, depending on their health and condition, with decisions on euthanasia made by the kennels themselves.

Financial and Service Impacts

The council has prepared for further increases in stray dog numbers in the coming financial year. Rising costs associated with the collection, boarding, and care of stray dogs are already affecting council resources and the delivery of services to residents. The impact is being closely monitored as the council adapts to the continued demand for animal management.

Additional Context

• The rising cost of living is contributing to more dogs needing new homes.
• Dog owners are being urged to update microchip information to ensure pets can be returned if lost.
• Fewer stray dogs are being reunited with their owners, according to local charities monitoring animal welfare.

Sources:

• BBC News
• The Guardian
• Sky News
• Covid could be behind rise in Stratford strays