Animal welfare
We help and advise farmers in complying with the law by:
- monitoring animal movements by licence
- checking movement and associated records on farms
- monitoring welfare standards of animals which are kept on a farm or are in transit or exposed for sale in livestock markets
- monitoring the rules relating to the carcass of any animal found on agricultural premises
- planning for rabies, foot and mouth and bird flu outbreaks
- investigating complaints relating to livestock movements or welfare issues
- holding supplies of the main statutory records movement documents
Where to find help
- RSPCA cruelty line, telephone: 0300 1234 999 (this is a 24 hour service)
- Dangerous dogs should be reported to Cheshire Police by telephone on 101.
Additional help for farmers
- Rural stress information network: 024 7641 2916 (weekdays 9am - 5pm)
- Royal agricultural benevolent fund: 01865 727 888 (weekdays 9am - 5pm / 4.30pm Friday)
- Farm Community Network: 03000 111 999 (opening hours - 7pm to 11pm daily)
Animal registration and licences
The council licenses all animal boarding kennels, pet shops, riding schools and zoos annually, for which there is a charge.
Barking dogs
We may get involved if a persistently barking dog becomes disturbing or annoying for neighbours.
If an informal visit to the householder with a noisy dog does not prevent significant disturbance, we will look into what further action can be taken.
I want to keep a wild animal
You made need a licence to keep certain dangerous wild animals. To apply or for further information contact the Council's Regulatory Services Team on the following number: 0300 123 7038. Further information regarding dangerous animals is available on the Defra website.