A Croydon dog warden has won an award from the RSPCA for the sixth year in a row – and received its platinum award for the second year running.
Tara Boswell, Croydon Council’s dog warden, was recognised for her work in promoting animal welfare within the borough.
The award is given to those who have each made remarkable contributions to animal welfare, according to the RSPCA website. These individuals and organisations have demonstrated exceptional dedication, compassion, and innovation in their efforts to protect, promote and enhance the lives of animals.
Boswell advises dog-owners in a variety of ways – from how to be a responsible dog owner, to finding rescue spaces for unclaimed stray dogs, and even providing a free microchipping service.
Collaborating with various charities, Boswell also helps find homes for unclaimed dogs and connects them with additional support, significantly reducing the number of stray dogs in the borough.
Boswell said she “takes pride” in the dog warden service, and working for the council.
Boswell told EastLondonLines: “Making a difference to the lives of animals in our care is very important to me and hugely rewarding. The RSPCA Stray Dogs PawPrints Awards are the only awards that celebrate the work of dog wardens, and I am truly honoured to have been awarded [platinum] for the sixth year running.”
She won the RSPCA’s gold award five years in a row, before being upgraded to the platinum award that she has now won two years running. The RSPCA created a platinum-level PawPrints Award to mark the scheme’s 15th birthday.
She was also honoured with a Special Recognition PawPrints Award in 2020 for her outstanding work as a dog warden during the pandemic, maintaining a strong presence in Croydon during the Covid-19 era. Additionally, Boswell provided animal behaviour advice through Zoom, addressed inquiries, and continued to secure rescue placements for stray dogs.
Mayor Jason Perry recognised her award and said he is: “really proud of Tara’s achievements,” and that she “showcases the best of Croydon.”
He said: “Her vital work helps improve the lives of our four-legged friends by giving them new homes and also helps and encourages residents to become better owners.”
“To win the top award six times in a row shows she is at the top of her game and is a great example for how dog wardens can support the communities they work in.”
