Supply of Boarding and Kennelling of Seized Dogs to the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS)

Tender description

Overview The Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC), the Contracting Authority, is issuing this Prior Information Notice (PIN) to inform the market of an upcoming competitive procedure with negotiation for a framework agreement. This agreement will cover the provision of boarding and kennelling services for dogs seized by the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS). The aim is to engage with capable service providers to ensure high-quality care for dogs seized under various circumstances. Scope of Services The service providers will be required to handle dogs seized or otherwise taken into possession by the MPS, which includes dogs of prohibited types, those dangerously out of control, dogs as prisoners' property, dogs taken for animal cruelty investigations, and others for non-specific operational reasons. Key Requirements - The services must be operational 24/7, 365 days a year, including public holidays. - Service providers must be capable of handling dogs with various temperaments and complex welfare needs, ensuring safety and proper care. - Kennel facilities should ideally be within a 150-mile radius of the MPS, with transportation times minimized to protect animal welfare. - Providers must have a minimum 3-star award/license from the relevant Local Authority under the Licensing of Activities Involving Animals (England) Regulations 2018. Technical and Operational Criteria - Adequate and secure shelter, food, exercise/enrichment, healthcare, and veterinary treatment must be provided. - The average kennel stay per dog is approximately 85 days. - Service providers should have the necessary personal protective equipment and training for handling aggressive or difficult dogs. - Facilities must be inspected regularly to ensure compliance with all requirements, including those related to veterinary care, kennel construction, and dog handling equipment. Legal and Compliance: All Service Providers must comply with relevant legislation and regulations, including but not limited to: - Licensing of Activities Involving Animals (England) Regulations 2018; - Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order; and - Veterinary Medicines Regulations 2013. Service providers will also be required to maintain accurate records of all dogs in their care and provide regular reports to MPS/MOPAC. Lot 1: Retained Kennnels Contract Charges for kennels reserved for Authority use only. Where the Authority enters into a contract for Retained Kennels, the Supplier will be expected to invest in the expansion and/or upgrade of kennel facilities. Lot 2: Framework Kennels (definition TBC) Contract Charges for the ad hoc purchase of Kennelling Services, excluding Welfare Kennels (subject to availability). Lot 3: Welfare Kennels Contract Charges for the ad hoc purchase of Kennelling Services specifically for dogs seized on welfare grounds and does not include dogs that are dangerously out of control or of a prohibited type.