Dog Handlers for Evictions and Property Repossessions

Dogs and other animals can make access unsafe or cause an eviction or repossession to be delayed. ACO attends alongside bailiffs and enforcement officers, landlords, housing associations, estate and letting agents, solicitors and locksmiths to manage animals safely so the property can be accessed and secured without unnecessary delay. Our actions are welfare-focused and fully documented.

How we support repossession teams

Our dog handlers integrate with your enforcement team and locksmiths so access happens safely, and with clear records.

• Safe access: calm containment and restraint so officers and contractors can work.
• Abandoned pets: assessment, secure transport and temporary kennelling/cattery when needed.
• Void/clearance support: animal checks before trades enter, so works aren’t stalled.
• Evidence & audit: attendance logs, welfare notes, and chain-of-custody where animals are moved via our dedicated app.

The result is fewer aborted visits, less risk to staff and the public, and a welfare trail if your team requires.

Typical situations we handle

• Dogs present at the door or loose inside the property during evictions or possession orders
• Multiple animals or unknown temperament making entry unsafe
• Owner absent or non-cooperative, risk of bite/escape
• Abandoned pets discovered after entry; need for temporary placement and updates
• Flats/blocks with shared access where animals complicate bailiff, agent or contractor movement

On-site approach

• Brief with enforcement team & locksmith — address, risks, sequence of entry.
• Welfare & risk check at the threshold — read the animal to anticipate potential reaction.
• Containment using appropriate equipment (treats, toys, slip leads, catch pole, shield and secure crate).
• Create a safe work zone — officers and trades can move without obstruction.
• Handover — if animals remain on site, ensure they’re secure; if removed, arrange transport/placement.
• Report & exit — notes, photos where appropriate, and any chain-of-custody.

Abandoned pets & temporary placement

Where animals can’t remain at the address, we coordinate secure transport, veterinary checks and short-term kennelling/cattery through trusted partners. You’ll receive chain-of-custody and a concise update to comply with your legal responsibilities.

What you receive

• Attendance record: date/time, address, named handler
• Welfare notes: veterinary report, actions, outcomes
• Photos where appropriate (redacted to your policy)
• Chain-of-custody if transport/placement occurs
• Job summary suitable for audit, complaint handling, or court review