Eight dogs were found at different locations around Westbourne, but luckily they were picked up before they came to any harm. Amongst those caught were 3 Japanese Akitas, 2 German Shepherds, 2 Lurchers and a Rottweiler. All of the dogs were later taken to local vets for a routine check up and treatment and are now fit and healthy.

It is the first time that this number of dogs have been abandoned in one location on the same night. It is also the first time that wardens have picked up the unusual breed of Japanese Akitas.

'It is totally unacceptable for people to treat animals in this way. We are appealing to anyone who saw anything suspicious, or who remembers a person owning dogs like these until recently, to contact Council Dog Wardens on 01243 534618. This sort of information may help us catch the people responsible', said Cllr Heather Caird, Portfolio Holder for Health at Chichester District Council.

2007 has seen an increase in the number of dogs abandoned in the District, as well as the usual number of strays that are unclaimed every year. Chichester District Council Dog Wardens are on hand to offer assistance to anyone having problems looking after their dog, and can offer advice on re-homing.

If you are interested in giving a home to a stray dog or have any information about the abandoned dogs please contact a Dog Warden on 01243 534618 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm) or 01243 785339 (out of hours) or email This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it

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