Wyre Council is undertaking a soft market testing exercise to assess the level of interest and capacity within the local market for the provision of stray dog kennelling services. This exercise is intended to inform future procurement considerations and help the council understand the availability of suitable providers both within Wyre and the surrounding areas.
The council has a statutory responsibility under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 to make arrangements for dealing with stray dogs and is seeking feedback from organisations that may be interested in delivering these services.
This engagement is for market research purposes only and does not constitute a formal procurement exercise, invitation to tender, or commitment by Wyre Council to proceed with any future procurement.
Express your interest
Interested parties can submit a response via the council's procurement portal:
Alternatively, download the Kennelling Contract RFI. Complete the application form and email it to Ben.McCabe@wyre.gov.uk
The deadline to express interest is 31 August 2026.
Scope
Wyre Council is seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified and experienced businesses capable of providing stray dog kennelling services, including the safe collection, transport, accommodation, care, and management of stray dogs on behalf of the council.
The anticipated service requirements include:
- Provision of secure, licensed kennelling facilities for stray dogs found within the Wyre borough.
- Collection and transportation of stray dogs when required.
- Appropriate welfare, feeding, exercise, veterinary care, and day-to-day management of all dogs in accordance with current animal welfare legislation and best practice.
- Maintenance of accurate records relating to dog admissions, ownership enquiries, reclaim processes, and outcomes.
The council's current requirement is expected to include these service hours:
Core service provision: Monday to Sunday, 8:30am to 5:00pm.
Out-of-hours service provision: 5:00pm to 9:00pm, including weekends and bank holidays, to respond to stray dog reports received outside normal operating hours.
Providers should indicate their ability to deliver both the core and out-of-hours elements of the service and highlight any alternative service models that may be available.
Information requested
Interested organisations are invited to provide information on:
- Company background and relevant experience
- Location of kennelling facilities
- Capacity and capability to manage stray dog services
- Availability to provide out-of-hours cover
- Relevant licences, accreditations and insurance arrangements
- Indicative pricing structures or charging models
- Any additional services or innovative approaches that could enhance service delivery