New figures obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request reveal that stray dog intake has more than tripled in Warrington, rising steadily from 31 in 2021 to 95 in 2025. Despite the surge, the number of dogs reclaimed by owners has remained low, falling to just 15 in 2025—around one in six. The number of dogs being euthanised has also climbed, rising from zero in 2021 and 2022 to five in 2025. There has also been an increase in dogs suspected of being prohibited types under the Dangerous Dogs Act. “During this period, the council introduced new arrangements that have allowed us to achieve better value for money, while continuing to meet our legal responsibilities for stray dogs.