The last two years have seen an increase in the number of stray dogs reported to and accepted by Herefordshire Council.

The authority increased the number of stray dogs from 68 in 2022 and only 21 in 2021 to 81 in 2023.

Of those seized by their owners last year, only five were claimed, compared to 19 claimed the year before.

Owners who come forward are required to pay collection and management fees, as well as kennel and vet bills.

The figures were provided in the council’s response to a freedom of information request. Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS).

The request also sought the number of XL Bully and other dangerous dogs the council accepted, but there were none in the three-year period.

Herefordshire Council operates a weekday helpline to report stray dogs.

Residents are reminded not to hide any apparent strays.

The taken are being held at Hereford and Worcester Animal Rescue (HWAR) in Madley, near Hereford, until the owner comes forward.

Owners must then pay a collection and administration fee of £55 plus a kennel fee of £13.50 per day after the first 24 hours and veterinary treatment costs.

Seven days later the dog is available to the public for rehoming, and the rescue center is asking for a donation of £200.

HWAR was asked about possible reasons for the increase in stray numbers.

However, a representative was unable to answer because she said, “Our phone is constantly ringing, we have dogs coming out of our ears, and he also takes care of all of our current dogs.”