FORTIS Living, Worcestershire's largest social housing provider, has been recognised by the RSPCA for its good practice in animal welfare.

The housing association has been awarded a gold Housing Footprint by the charity and and in recognition of the organisation being awarded the gold level for five continuous years – it has also won a platinum housing footprint.

The landlord works in partnership with its residents to ensure responsible pet ownership. As well as a policy and guides on pet ownership, it offers help and guidance on neutering and micro-chipping and employs a pragmatic and fair decision making process regarding prohibited dogs.

It also works alongside other agencies such as local RSPCAs and The Dogs Trust.

Clare Greensall, tenancy services manager at Fortis Living, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been recognised by the RSPCA in this way; we have successfully entered these awards for five years now and it is testimony to our consistent and fair approach to encouraging responsible pet ownership that we have once again been recognised. Our congratulations to all those involved.”

Rachel Williams, senior parliamentary advisor for the RSPCA, said: “It's fantastic that Fortis has not only achieved a gold award, which is a great achievement in itself, but have held it for five years to receive the prestigious platinum too. This is a real testament to the hard work of Fortis staff and their commitment to animal welfare.”

The RSPCA PawPrints Awards recognise and celebrate public service organisations that go above and beyond to ensure high animal welfare standards in their communities

The 2018 PawPrints Awards evening will be held at RICS, Parliament Square in London on November 27, when the event will also celebrate its 10th anniversary.